Black History Month 2026: A century of Black History commemorations
January 28, 2026 8:12 AM
by City of Santa Monica
Updated Feb. 13, 2026.
This year’s Black History Month theme marks an especially significant and momentous milestone: “A century of Black History Commemorations.”
In February 1926, author, historian, and activist Carter G. Woodson established Negro History Week, which later became Black History Month, to honor Black achievements and contributions to U.S. history.
Woodson also founded what is today known as the Association for the Study of African American Life and History, or ASALH, which continues his legacy of disseminating knowledge about Black History. This Black History Month, ASALH encourages us to explore the “impact and meaning of Black history and life commemorations in transforming the status of Black peoples in the modern world.”
Having just celebrated Santa Monca’s 150th anniversary last year with a variety of community-led events, our community has already been engaging in conversations and activities reflecting on both the achievements and the injustices in our city’s past – and how to chart a more inclusive and equitable future.
To continue this reflection and commemorate Black History Month, the city’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion team, along with city affinity groups, the Library, the Cultural Affairs Division, and partners throughout the city have curated a group of engaging, creative and educational community events. All are welcome to join in, celebrate and learn.
Pencil these events in your calendar and check back here weekly for updates!
Black History Month Reading Challenge
Feb. 1 – 28 / Visit smpl.beanstack.org to register
Explore and honor the rich history, culture, and achievements of Black men and women through books, featuring titles receiving a Coretta Scott King Book Award. These awards are given to outstanding African American authors and illustrators of books for children and young adults that demonstrate an appreciation of African American culture and universal human values. Log your reading and activities to earn badges and entry into a book pack drawing. For ages 12 – 17.
Mystery & Thriller Book Group: “While Justice Sleeps” by Stacey Abrams
Tuesday, Feb. 17, 7 – 8 p.m. / Zoom
This community-led, monthly book discussion group meets virtually to discuss domestic and international titles in the mystery and thriller genres. During the month of February, book group participants will read and discuss Stacey Abrams’ political thriller novel, “While Justice Sleeps.” To register, email library@santamonica.gov.
SMPL Presents: The Iconic House of Ninja
Wednesday, Feb. 18, 7 – 8 p.m. / Main Library, MLK Jr. Auditorium
Get ready to werk! The Iconic House of Ninja brings the heat in a vogue dance performance that's guaranteed to electrify. Founded in 1982 by the late Willi Ninja, the ‘Godfather of Vogue’, The House of Ninja has made a major impact on both ballroom and mainstream culture, appearing in the award-winning documentary Paris Is Burning, and the HBO Max ballroom competition series Legendary. House of Ninja has worked alongside some of the biggest names in fashion and music, including Madonna, Lady Gaga, Beyoncé, and Doechii, and their performance is sure to earn 10s across the board!
This event was produced by Santa Monica Public Library in collaboration with the City of Santa Monica, Cultural Affairs Art of Recovery initiative.
Locals' Night: Jazz Night
Thursday, Feb. 19, 3:30 - 10 p.m. / Santa Monica Pier
Locals’ Night is bringing the rhythm with BroadStage's Jazz Night featuring phenomenal alumni from Stanley Clarke's Artist Residency program. Enjoy serious grooves to celebrate Black History Month, while Offhand Wine Bar keeps the vibe smooth with perfectly paired selections.
Notable Fiction Book Group: “The Birdwatcher” by Gayl Jones
Saturday, Feb. 21, 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. / Zoom
This community-led, monthly book discussion group meets virtually to discuss prize-winning fiction titles. During the month of February, book group participants will read and discuss “The Birdwatcher,” a National Book Award finalist that explores Black women’s creative expression. To register, email library@santamonica.gov.
Sissies: Something Perfect between Ourselves
Saturday, Feb. 21, 3 – 5 p.m. / Annenberg Community Beach House
Bernard Brown, Director and Choreographer of bbmoves, will preview Sissies: Something Perfect between Ourselves, a performance and installation by, for, and about Black, Brown, and Indigenous Queer artists who have created spaces that feed the music, dance, fashion, and creative heartbeat of underground queer LA.
Honoring Eddie Davis, Santa Monica’s Fire Department, 1960
Tuesday, Feb. 24, 5:30 – 6:30 p.m., Santa Monica City Hall
Join the City in honoring the legacy of Eddie Davis, Santa Monica’s first black firefighter, as we commemorate his service, determination, and lasting impact on our community.
11th Annual Greens Festival
Saturday, Feb. 28, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. / Virginia Avenue Park
Bring your family, friends, and neighbors for a day of culture, connection, and celebration at the 11th Annual Greens Festival, a joyful celebration of Black History Month, presented by the Black Santa Monica Community Group in collaboration with Virginia Avenue Park.
This year’s theme, “Boots on the Ground,” honors community and culture. Enjoy greens cooking demonstrations, music and dance, local vendors, and community booths offering resources and information for the community. Arron “Bobo” Arnell returns as the MC and DJ Dense from KJLH will be spinning throughout the event.
Black History Month Movie Screening: “Ruby Bridges”
Saturday, Feb. 28, 3 – 5 p.m. / Main Library
Learn about Ruby Bridges, a young Black girl, and her experience integrating William Frantz Elementary School, which was previously a whites-only school in New Orleans. Runtime: 96 min. For families.
Home Under One’s Skin
Saturday, Feb. 28, 3, 4 and 5 p.m. / Historic Belmar Park
Marcella Lewis’ “Home Under One’s Skin” is created in conversation with April Banks’ “A Resurrection in Four Stanzas” at Historic Belmar Park, a public sculpture that engages histories of displacement and remembrance. Rooted in movement, voice, and direct audience engagement, Lewis’ work reflects on memory, revival, and longing – centering the intergenerational loss of “porch life,” a cultural space of gathering, storytelling, and care once central to Black communal life.
Santa Monica Public Library reading lists
Learn about African American history and the contributions of Black people in the United States with these Santa Monica Public Library staff picks lists:
- Black History Month Books for Adults
- Black Histories, Black Futures: Titles for Teens
- Black History Month Middle Grade Reads
- Black History Month Picture Books
- Libros del mes de la historia de los afrodescendientes
Watch the Black History Month Proclamation at the Jan. 28 City Council meeting here.
In honor of the Black History Month centennial, the City Council and staff recognized 11 organizations and individuals for their contributions to Santa Monica’s Black communities at the Jan. 28 council meeting. Below are highlights of each honoree and the work they do to advance equity, culture and community in our city.
LaVerne Ross, cosmetologist and founder of Santa Monica’s Juneteenth Festival
LaVerne Ross moved to Santa Monica on June 7, 1957, and brought her lifelong celebration of Juneteenth to the city in 1992. That year, she successfully advocated for city council support of a community celebration commemorating June 19. On that day in 1865, Union Army General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, to announce that enslaved people were free, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was issued. This historic occasion marked the beginning of Juneteenth, a celebration of freedom, resilience and Black history that continues to inspire communities today. Santa Monica’s Juneteenth celebration has since grown into a major annual event that honors Black freedom, history and culture through music, art and community gathering.
In addition to her leadership of Juneteenth, LaVerne Ross practiced cosmetology for 64 years, serving generations of clients and building lasting connections in the community.
Click here to hear LaVerne Ross share her story on the StoryCorps Archive. Learn more about the historical legacy of Juneteenth on the National Museum of African American History and Culture website.
NAACP Santa Monica–Venice Branch
The NAACP Santa Monica-Venice Branch is the local chapter of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, which was founded nationally in 1909 to secure the political, educational, social and economic rights of all people. Since its establishment, the Santa Monica-Venice Branch has worked to advance civil rights and equity by addressing discrimination, expanding access to opportunity and engaging the community in education, advocacy and civic action. Through programs, public forums and partnerships, the branch remains committed to justice, inclusion and positive change in Santa Monica and Venice. Visit the organization’s website to learn more about its work and impact: naacpsantamonicavenice.org
Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Westside Coalition
Founded in 1986, the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Westside Coalition honors the legacy of Dr. King by advancing his principles of equality, justice and service within the Santa Monica community. The nonprofit organizes one of Southern California’s longest-running annual celebrations of Dr. King’s life, bringing residents together for reflections, artistic performances and community recognition aligned with his vision of justice and love. The Coalition’s programs include its annual MLK Day observance, prayer breakfast, community involvement fair, education awards and the Community Light Award honoring nonprofits that give back in the spirit of Dr. King’s vision. Additional details about the Coalition’s history and programs can be found on its website. mlkjrwestside.org
Philomathean Charity Club
Established in 1921, the Philomathean Charity Club is the oldest African American women’s organization in Santa Monica. Formed to promote education, mutual aid and civic involvement, the Club has supported generations of residents through scholarships and community service. In 1958, members built a clubhouse that served as a gathering space for meetings and celebrations while also housing businesses that helped fund the Club’s ongoing work. In 2024, the building was designated a City Landmark in recognition of its historic significance. Click here to watch a video about the history of the Philomathean Charity Club.
Phillips Chapel CME Church
Phillips Chapel Christian Methodist Episcopal Church is the oldest African American church in Santa Monica, with a history spanning more than 120 years. Since the early 1900s, the church has provided worship, fellowship and community support, serving as a spiritual home and safe space for generations of Black residents. More information about the church and its ministry is available on its website: phillipschapelcme.com
Greater Morning Star Baptist Church
Greater Morning Star Baptist Church has served as a place of worship and fellowship in Santa Monica for decades. Through its ministry, the church has provided spiritual guidance, pastoral care and community connection for its congregation and the broader community. To learn more about the church and its programs, visit its website: greater-morning-star-baptist-church.ueniweb.com
Calvary Baptist Church
Calvary Baptist Church was organized in Santa Monica in 1920 by members seeking to establish an African American Baptist congregation. From its earliest years, the church developed Sunday school programs, missionary work and community outreach while remaining rooted in faith and service. Today, Calvary continues to offer worship services, Bible study, music ministry and outreach initiatives that support spiritual growth, education and community connection. Additional information about Calvary Baptist Church can be found on its website: calvarysantamonica.org
First AME Church Santa Monica
Founded in 1921, First African Methodist Episcopal Church Santa Monica has been a cornerstone of faith, service and civic engagement for more than a century. The church was established to provide spiritual nourishment and community support for Black residents at a time when segregated worship options were limited. Over the decades, First AME has offered worship services, pastoral care, outreach ministries, youth programs and community activities that foster connection and mutual support. As an active presence in Santa Monica, the church has also played a role in advocating for social justice and uplifting families across generations. Learn more about First AME Church Santa Monica by visiting its website: famecsm.org
Robbie Jones, Owner of Black Santa Monica Tours and Concierge
Robbie Jones is a Santa Monica native, entrepreneur and community historian. She is the founder of Black Santa Monica Tours and Concierge, where she offers guided tours and educational experiences that highlight the history, stories and contributions of Black residents and historic sites in Santa Monica. Her work helps preserve and share local Black heritage with residents, students and visitors. In addition to her tours, Robbie is the owner of Jus Family Cafe, a community gathering place that celebrates culture, connection and local flavors. Through her businesses and storytelling, she continues to strengthen community understanding of Santa Monica’s diverse history and cultural legacy.
Santa Monica Black Agenda
The Santa Monica Black Agenda emerged in 2020 as a community led effort to identify priorities and strategies to address racial inequities in the city. Developed by local leaders and residents, the Black Agenda focuses on equity areas such as housing, economic opportunity, education, public policy and civic engagement.
Santa Monica Black Empowerment Association
The Santa Monica Black Empowerment Association was established in 2021 as a nonprofit organization focused on supporting the well-being of Black residents. Formerly known as the Santa Monica Black Lives Association, the organization provides advocacy, resources and community-based support aimed at promoting stability, opportunity and empowerment. Additional information about the association and its work can be found on its website: smbea.org
Authored By
City of Santa Monica