This February, the Office of Diversity, Inclusion, and Multicultural Education (ODIME) and Worcester Polytechnic Institute proudly honor Black History Month 2026 with the theme Trailblazers, Changemakers, and Visionaries. Black History Month is a yearly celebration that pays tribute to the accomplishments, heritage, and culture of Black communities while acknowledging their vital and enduring influence on American history and society. Now is the time to recognize the creativity, resilience, leadership, and brilliance of Black individuals whose contributions have shaped our world.
Black History Month originated in 1926, when historian Dr. Carter G. Woodson, a graduate of Harvard University, and the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH), initiated “Negro History Week” to draw national attention to Black history, which was largely absent from mainstream narratives at the time. 50 years later, in 1976, President Gerald Ford made an official move to extend this weeklong celebration into a month-long observance, encouraging Americans to “seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of Black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history.”
The national theme set by ASALH in 2026 marks one hundred years of commemorating Black history - a significant milestone that encourages reflection on the evolution of this observance and its continuing importance today. The centennial theme emphasizes the continued efforts to enhance public awareness of Black history and the significance of these commemorations in crafting inclusive narratives.
Black History Month serves not only to recall historical figures but also to honor contributions across various fields including sciences, the arts, justice, technology, literature, education, and community leadership that have enriched society at all levels. From trailblazers of civil rights like Martin Luther King Jr. and Rosa Parks to innovators such as Thurgood Marshall and Mae Jemison, as well as modern leaders in various fields, Black excellence remains a guiding force for the future.
The theme for this year urges us to move past mere acknowledgment and toward genuine involvement, partnership, and action. It urges us to recognize the intricacy of history, broaden the range of stories we share, and dedicate ourselves to fairness in our classrooms, labs, clubs, and discussions. Black history extends beyond the boundaries of February; it is interwoven into the fabric of our collective narrative and continues to shape our learning, innovation, and leadership.
Everyone can take part in Black History Month; it is an opportunity to come together to listen, learn, celebrate, and foster community. We can foster a campus environment where inclusion, respect, and belonging are vital to our collective success by showing up, supporting each other, and celebrating the contributions of all Black voices.
"By moulding and directing the thoughts of youth toward inclusion and equality, one can create social change and help establish a future without bias. We can build a community based on unity, respect, and collective celebration. The choices we make today will determine the world we leave behind and will be remembered for generations."
-Viraj Samant [Graduate Assistant for Student Advocacy & Programming]
Black History Month is also an occasion to emphasize the significant influence that Black innovators have had in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Even with systemic obstacles and potentially restricted access to resources, Black engineers and scientists have propelled innovations that continue to influence contemporary research, medicine, and technology.
Pioneers like Katherine Johnson, whose calculations were essential for NASA's initial space missions, and Mae Jemison, the first Black woman in space, represent the brilliance and determination that have broadened humanity's comprehension of what is achievable. Pioneers such as George Washington Carver revolutionized agricultural science with sustainable farming techniques, whereas Marie Maynard Daly made significant discoveries connecting cholesterol to heart disease.
In the fields of engineering and technology, figures like Mark Dean, a co-creator of the personal computer, and Otis Boykin, whose work enhanced medical devices such as pacemakers, exemplify the enduring impact of Black excellence in innovation. Modern-day scientists and engineers carry on this legacy, pushing forward domains like artificial intelligence, biomedical research, environmental science, and space exploration.
Black History Month serves to remind us that Black contributions to STEM are not exceptions, but foundational. These pioneers opened the path for future generations of innovators, scientists, and engineers, motivating today’s students to seek out new knowledge, push against boundaries, and envision new opportunities.
This observance at WPI serves as a chance to honor the accomplishments of Black students, faculty, staff, and alumni who contribute to strengthening, inclusivity, and creativity within our community on a daily basis. During February 2026 and beyond, we encourage the community to engage in events on campus and in Worcester.
Upcoming Worcester Events and Activities:
- "I Declare" Art Show: Held at the Worcester Center for Crafts, this show explores local Black perspectives.
- Echoes of Hope, Anchored in Resilience Luncheon: Feb 11, 2026, 10 AM-3 PM at Living Word Church, featuring keynote speaker Isiah Tucker.
- The Village Marketplace Celebration: Feb 14, 2026, 12 PM, 4 King Street, honouring 100 years of Black History Month.
- Worcester Public Library: Hosting ongoing Black History Month events, classes, and book displays throughout February.
Campus & Local Resources:
- Worcester Black History Project (WBHP): Collaborates with the Worcester Historical Museum on local history preservation.
- ODIME’s Multicultural Student Resources
- Join or support one of WPI’s cultural student organizations! Check out the full list as well as upcoming events on myWPI.
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The Office of Diversity, Inclusion, and Multicultural Education (ODIME) promotes and oversees student-facing learning experiences, programs, services, trainings, and initiatives for WPI.
