As we honor Black History Month, we reflect on the rich heritage, culture, and achievements of African Americans throughout history. This month offers an opportunity to commemorate the trailblazers who have shaped the course of civil rights, social justice, and cultural movements, and to recognize the enduring contributions of African Americans to every facet of society. Black History Month is a time not only for remembrance but for celebration—of progress, resilience, and the continued pursuit of equality and inclusion.

Black History Month traces its roots back to 1915, fifty years after the Thirteenth Amendment abolished slavery in the United States. That year, historian Carter G. Woodson and minister Jesse E. Moorland, both Harvard-trained, founded the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH) to promote the study of Black history and culture. In 1926, they launched a national “Negro History Week” during the second week of February, chosen to align with the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass. Since 1976, every U.S. president has officially recognized February as Black History Month, a time to honor the achievements of Black Americans.

In this spirit, we are proud to celebrate both historical milestones and contemporary contributions from African Americans by highlighting some of our involvement in preserving history and art.