ADVISORY: Coppin State University to Host Events Marking 100 Years of Black History Commemorations

BALTIMORE - One hundred years ago, Dr. Carter G. Woodson and the founders of the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH) launched what would become a global movement to recognize Black contributions to history. This February, Coppin State University marks that centennial milestone with events exploring how a century of commemorations has transformed the status of Black peoples worldwide.

The 2026 theme, "A Century of Black History Commemorations," traces the evolution from Negro History Week to Black History Month-observances now woven into the fabric of American culture and recognized globally. At a time when legislative efforts and book bans threaten to diminish Black history in schools and public spaces, this centennial offers an opportunity to reaffirm its enduring value and impact.

Black History Month Event Highlights:

(Campus Map)

The Centennial Shelf: Stories That Shaped Us

February 2026

A curated collection of influential works that have shaped Black history and culture over the past century.

I'll Make Me A World

February 3, 2026| 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. | Virtual Online

A virtual exploration of Black creativity, innovation, and world-building across generations.

ASCEND HBCU Tour & Civic Engagement Sessions

February 5, 2026| 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. | Tawes Ballroom

Sessions designed to empower HBCU students to become active participants in civic life.

Celebration: Uplifting & Honoring the Culture & History of Black Dance

February 11, 2026| 7:30 p.m. | Gordon Center for Performing Arts, 3506 GwynnbrookAve., Owings Mills, MD 21117

An evening celebrating the rich legacy and cultural significance of Black dance traditions.

Coppin Repertory Theatre Presents: The Meeting

February 12, 2026 - March 1, 2026| The Theatre Lab, Grace Jacobs, Lower Level

Coppin Repertory Theatre presents this powerful dramatic work as part of the current theatre season.

Divine Defiance: Merging Faith with Activism to Address Today's Urgent Social Issues

February 12, 2026| 1:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m.

A discussion exploring the intersection of faith and activism in addressing contemporary social challenges.

Where the Bass Lives, From Chicago to the Charm City: House Music and Black Baltimore, 1986-2026

February 17, 2026| 12:30 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. | Virtual Online

Four decades of house music in Black Baltimore, tracing its roots from Chicago to the Charm City.

Coppin Chopped: The Black Table

February 18, 2026| 12:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. | Talon Center Dining Hall

A culinary celebration honoring the traditions and significance of Black foodways and gathering spaces.

Unity Day and Marketplace

February 24, 2026| 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. | Tawes Building

Local vendors, cultural activities, performances, and community engagement celebrating the legacy of Black leaders.

Preserving the Past, Designing the Future: Empowering the Next Generation of Educators through Technology and Invention

February 24, 2026| 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. | Virtual Online

How technology and innovation can empower the next generation of educators while honoring historical foundations.

The Harlem Renaissance

March 6, 2026| 3:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. | The Mill on North, 2636 W. North Avenue

An immersive experience celebrating the artistic and cultural explosion of the Harlem Renaissance era.

Visit https://www.coppin.edu/blackhistorymonthfor a full list of Black History Month celebration events.

Media with questions or interested in covering Coppin State University Black History Month events are encouraged to reach out to Public Relations Specialist, CherRae Dickerson, at 410.951.6548 or [email protected].

The 2026 African American History Month Activities are sponsored by the Coppin State University African American History Committee.

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