Maplewood Celebrates Black History Month: 2026 Events

MAPLEWOOD, NJ — The following news release comes courtesy of Maplewood Township. Find out how to post announcements or events to your local Patch site.

In recognition of Black History Month, the Township of Maplewood, in collaboration with local nonprofit, community, cultural, and business partners, is presenting more than 20 artistic, cultural, and educational events throughout the month of February.

For a full calendar of Black History Month events and activities, visit: https://www.maplewoodartsandculture.org/mbhm

“This year marks Maplewood’s ninth annual Black History Month celebration, coinciding with a century of Black history commemorations nationwide,” Mayor Vic De Luca said. “For 100 years, these observances have preserved, uplifted, and expanded our understanding of Black history and culture. As we reflect on that legacy, we also recommit ourselves to confronting the racial inequities that continue to shape our society today.”

A Black History Month proclamation was read on Feb. 3 at the Maplewood Township Municipal Building.

The national 2026 Black History Month theme, “A Century of Black History Commemorations,” marks 100 years since the first organized celebration of Black history. “We remember Dr. Carter G. Woodson, who launched Negro History Week in 1926 to celebrate Black contributions to society,” said Township Committee Member Jane Collins-Colding. “We cannot let Black history be erased; it is an integral part of American history.”

Established by the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH), this year’s theme encourages communities to explore how Black history commemorations have expanded understanding, visibility, and recognition of Black life, culture, and contributions over the past century, and how these efforts continue to shape the future.

The Division of Arts & Culture proudly presents events taking place at multiple locations throughout Maplewood during the month of February. Community partners and event sponsors include:

• Maplewood’s Department of Community Services
• Maplewood Arts Council
• Maplewood Memorial Library
• Maplewood Village Alliance
• Akuaba Fashions
• Springfield Avenue Partnership
• 1978 Maplewood Arts Center
• Durand-Hedden House
• Maplewood Film Society
• South Orange/Maplewood Community Coalition on Race
• SOMA Justice
• SOMA Action
• Hilton Neighborhood Association
• Maplewood Senior Center
• South Mountain YMCA
• Columbia High School
• interACT
• Astah’s Fine Art Gallery
• [words] Bookstore

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