Join The Mosaic as we celebrate, honor, and uplift our Black and African American community. This February marks 100 Years of Black History and serves as a reminder of the impact of Black history on our country. We acknowledge the profound contributions and influence of Black and African Americans that have shaped our nation's history, while also celebrating their cultural influences, resilience, love, and service. We pay tribute to the ongoing representation, creativity, and artistic expression that enriches our communities.
As we honor the Association for the Study of African American Life and History theme, "Century of Black History Commemorations," we reflect on a legacy of brilliance that has fundamentally shaped our country. A continued and steady reminder that Black history is a true testament of US history. ASALH states, "From Negro History Week to Black History Month, ASALH has carried forth the tradition, and the observances have become part of the warp and weft of American culture and increasingly the global community. For our 100th theme, the founders of Black History Month urge us to explore the impact and meaning of Black history and life commemorations in transforming the status of Black peoples in the modern world." (Association for the Study of African American Life and History). For more information about ASALH 2026 Black History Month, click here.
National recognition may have arrived in 1976, yet the legacy of Black excellence has always been woven into the fabric of our society. We celebrate not just the milestones of the past, but also the vibrant culture and creativity of the present. For The Mosaic, 'Inclusive Excellence' means ensuring this celebration isn't confined to a single month. We remain committed to honoring and elevating the history and ongoing contributions of the Black and African American community year-round.
Throughout February, join our UMBC community in celebrating with events and programs. Consider connecting with one of our many student organizations, such as BSU, BGSO, the Association for Black Artists, and the African Student Association, for more events!
Hear Our Stories: Celebrating Black History Month
Monday, February 2, 2026
11:30 AM - 1 PM
Commons Mainstreet (in front of the Bookstore)
Join The Mosaic: Center for Cultural Diversity & The Gathering Space for Spiritual Well-Being as we read and highlight Black and Africana stories through children's literature.
Music & The Mosaic (Black History Month × The Grammys Edition!)
Wednesday, February 4, 2026
12 - 1 PM | 2B23 The Commons
Join us in a laid-back, vibrant setting where music, culture, and conversation come together. This pop-up will explore the impact of Black artists on the music industry, iconic Grammy moments, and the cultural influence of Black music across genres.
Friday, February 6, 2026
Our 2026 theme, "Roots of Success: Grounded in Community," highlights our foundational belief in the indispensable power of building and maintaining a shared community. We deeply value the rich diversity among our students, staff, and faculty, which is a key source of UMBC's strength. However, the reality for some of our community members, particularly those who are Black, often feel a gap in a shared cultural or racial community. To honor our theme, we aim to cultivate an environment where Black students, staff, and community members are not only heard and seen but also feel grounded in our shared community. Through the Black Excellence Summit, we are evolving the concept of Black Excellence. We hope to redefine it away from appealing to external societal norms, and instead, focus on celebrating the richness of the Black experience within our community, recognizing and fostering success in all its genuine forms.
BSU Groove Theory: BES After Party!
Friday, February 6, 2026
7 - 10 PM | UC Ballroom
The Official Black Excellence Summit After Party! Come dressed up for our soul train themed get together and be ready for a night full of music, dance, and fun!
Thursday, February 12, 2026
6:30 PM | Chesapeake Arena
It's Greek Night at UMBC! Rep your letters and bring the energy as the Black Student Athlete Alliance and BSU take the court.
Black History Month Discussion Panel - Black History: Under Attack, but yet Unbroken
Wednesday, February 18, 2026
3:30 - 5 PM | The Commons 329
In collaboration with the Department of Africana Studies and the Women's, Gender, and Equity Center, please join them for their Black History Month Discussion Panel titled "Black History: Under Attack, but yet Unbroken." This year's theme aims to highlight the current suppression of Black history and explore how censorship, distortion, and systemic narratives shape collective memory. Be part of an honest discussion to preserve Black history, resist oppression, and reclaim truth for future generations through academia.
The Mosaic Center and all events are open for full participation by all individuals regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, or any other protected category under applicable federal law, state law, and the University's nondiscrimination policy.