Did you know that 2026 is the 100th anniversary of Black History Month? This annual observance is a necessary correction in a nation that too often erased or ignored the full story of Black American life. In 1926, historian Carter G. Woodson launched Negro History Week so the contributions of Black Americans could no longer be dismissed as footnotes. What began as a week became a month.
Now, in the 100th year of this celebration, we’re asking a bigger question:What if Black history was not confined to just one month?
In 2026, The Unhidden Minuteproudly announces our acknowledgement of Black History Year. This weekly 12-month commitment will tell the enduring stories that have always shaped this nation. From public lands and national parks to science, culture, resistance, creativity, and joy, Black history is not seasonal. It is essential.
Black History Year invites us to slow down, look deeper, and recognize that these stories must be shared through each of the 12 months, not just February. I hope you’ll take a minute and join us.
Illustrations by Nate Taylor
The Joy Trip Project celebrates the enduring legacy of American History. The Unhidden Minute is part of the Unhidden Podcast Project supported through a National Geographic Explorer Grant from the National Geographic Society, with the cooperation of the National Park Service. This series elevates the untold stories of Black American historical figures, events and cultural contributions.
#unhiddenblackhistory #NationalParkService #yourparkstory #NationalGeographic #unhiddenminute
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