Black History Month 2026: Celebrating a century of Black history commemorations

The University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh continues its month-long series of activities and events to celebrate Black history. See the full line-up here.

Alphonso Simpson Jr., UWO director of African-American Studies and Associate Professor of Sociology, says most schools still teach a history curriculum which focuses on traditional events and the achievements of white figures. He says Black History Month gives everyone the opportunity to share, celebrate and understand the impact of black heritage and culture.

Of special mention, is the 6th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Commemorative Celebration and Awards Program/Oshkosh 94 Scholarship Program taking place from 6:30-8 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 18 at Reeve Memorial Union Theater Room 307. Keynote speaker will be State Rep. Kalan Haywood II.

Several other upcoming events of the many planned are Black History Month Radio Broadcast-Texts of Resistance Part 2 (5 p.m. Feb. 19 on 90.3 WRST-FM); Gospel Music Workshop of Oshkosh (2-5 p.m. Feb. 21 in the Arts & Communications Building Room N28); Divine Voices of the Valley "Tiny Desk Crew" Concert (6:30 p.m. free admission on Feb. 22 at Sage Hall 1210); UWO Jazz Ensemble Concert (7:30 p.m. Feb. 26 at Theatre Arts Center with ticketed admission at the door); and 3rd Annual Night of Soul Food and Jazz" with Distinguished Alumnus Maurice "Moe" Wince (5:30-8:30 p.m. Feb. 27 at Culver Family Welcome Center).

Check out the complete and latest Black History Month calendar of events here.

African-American Studies at UWO

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