Each February, UNA-Atlanta proudly joins communities across the United States in celebrating Black History Month — a time to honor the achievements, resilience, and enduring contributions of Black people everywhere, from well-known leaders, activists, and changemakers to the countless unsung heroes whose efforts have shaped our world. Around the globe, many communities celebrate Black history at different times of the year, reflecting the diverse ways this legacy is recognized internationally.
This year carries special meaning as we mark 100 years since Dr. Carter G. Woodson established Negro History Week in 1926, a legacy reflected in the 2026 theme, “A Century of Black History Commemorations.” This centennial is not only a moment of remembrance, but a call to uplift the stories, voices, and leadership that inspire us to build a more just and equitable future for all.
Atlanta’s Unique Role in Black History
Atlanta holds a special place in this history. As the hometown of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and a cradle of the U.S. Civil Rights Movement, our city reminds us that the pursuit of justice and equality is both a local responsibility and a global call to action. The values championed by civil rights leaders — dignity, freedom, and human rights for all — are deeply aligned with the mission of the United Nations.
Over the past century, Black history has shaped culture, policy, innovation, and movements for social change — not only in the United States but around the world. The leadership and lived experiences of people of African descent remain essential to advancing the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those focused on reducing inequalities, promoting quality education, improving health and well-being, and building peaceful, just, and inclusive societies.
Ways to Commemorate Black History Month in Atlanta
Be inspired by history and help shape the future by exploring these meaningful ways to honor Black History Month in Atlanta:
Black history is world history. By honoring it — and recommitting to equity and human rights — we strengthen our shared pursuit of the UN’s global vision for all.
This year carries special meaning as we mark 100 years since Dr. Carter G. Woodson established Negro History Week in 1926, a legacy reflected in the 2026 theme, “A Century of Black History Commemorations.” This centennial is not only a moment of remembrance, but a call to uplift the stories, voices, and leadership that inspire us to build a more just and equitable future for all.
Atlanta’s Unique Role in Black History
Atlanta holds a special place in this history. As the hometown of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and a cradle of the U.S. Civil Rights Movement, our city reminds us that the pursuit of justice and equality is both a local responsibility and a global call to action. The values championed by civil rights leaders — dignity, freedom, and human rights for all — are deeply aligned with the mission of the United Nations.
Over the past century, Black history has shaped culture, policy, innovation, and movements for social change — not only in the United States but around the world. The leadership and lived experiences of people of African descent remain essential to advancing the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those focused on reducing inequalities, promoting quality education, improving health and well-being, and building peaceful, just, and inclusive societies.
Ways to Commemorate Black History Month in Atlanta
Be inspired by history and help shape the future by exploring these meaningful ways to honor Black History Month in Atlanta:
- Visit the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park, including the King Center for Nonviolent Social Change, Ebenezer Baptist Church, and Dr. King’s Birth Home
- Explore African American history and innovation at the APEX Museum
- Walk along historic Auburn Avenue, known as “Sweet Auburn,” one of the nation’s most significant Black heritage corridors
- Experience the connection between civil rights and global human rights at the National Center for Civil and Human Rights
- Discover exhibits on the Civil War, the Civil Rights Movement, and African American history at the Atlanta History Center
- Tour the Herndon Home Museum, the former residence of Alonzo Herndon, Atlanta’s first Black millionaire
- Attend cultural festivals and performances such as the Roswell Roots festival
- Participate in youth-focused educational programming at the Children’s Museum of Atlanta
- Support and shop at Black-owned businesses throughout the Atlanta area
- Attend local lectures, community dialogues, museum programs, and other cultural events honoring Black history and heritage
Black history is world history. By honoring it — and recommitting to equity and human rights — we strengthen our shared pursuit of the UN’s global vision for all.
