Mayor Michelle Wu Announces City's Black History Month Programming

Mayor Michelle Wu and the City of Boston’s Equity & Inclusion Cabinet announced a series of programs to mark the start of the 100th anniversary of Black History Month. This year’s national theme, “A Century of Black History Commemorations,” invites residents to honor a century of collective remembrance while examining how Black history observances have shaped identity, fueled movements for justice, and continue to inform how Black communities define their past, present, and future. Mayor Wu, local elected officials and residents kicked off Black History Month yesterday with the City’s annual Black History Month celebration and flag raising. 

“The deep impact of Boston’s Black communities is woven into the fabric of our city and we honor these contributions during Black History Month and throughout the year,” said Mayor Michelle Wu. “I'm thrilled to announce this year’s Black History Month programming, where residents, families and visitors can engage in a range of activities that educate and inspire.”

“As we commemorate the 100th anniversary of Black History Month, we honor a century of Black history, achievement, and contribution that has shaped our city and our nation,” said Chief of Equity & Inclusion Mariangely Solis Cervera. “This milestone invites us to reflect on the power of remembrance and to recommit to building a future rooted in dignity, opportunity, and belonging for all.”

“In this centennial year of Black History Month, we are reaffirming that Black history is not peripheral to Boston’s story, it is central to our identity, our values, and our future,” said Lori Nelson, Senior Advisor on Racial Justice.

In observance of Black History Month, Boston Public Library (BPL) is releasing  Black Is..., a booklist featuring recently published titles that celebrate the achievements, complexities, struggles, and culture of the Black experience. Additionally the BPL will be hosting special events for all ages at various branches. More information about the booklist and BPL events can be found here.

For all programming hosted by the City of Boston, please visit here.  

City of Boston Black History Month Celebration and Flag Raising Program

Tuesday, February 3, 12:00 - 2:00 p.m. 

This event featured remarks from Mayor Michelle Wu, poetry from Amanda Shea and a ceremonial flag raising. 

Location: Boston City Hall - Third Floor Mezzanine, 1 City Hall Square, Downtown

BCYF Black History Annual Skate Night

Thursday, February 19, 5:00 - 8:00 p.m. 

Location: Chez Vous, 11 Rhoades St., Dorchester, MA 02124

Boston youths, ages 17 and under, can skate with friends and families from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Chez Vous Skating Rink in Dorchester. 

Black Veterans Appreciation Luncheon

Saturday, February 21, 11:00 - 2:00 p.m. 

Location: Hibernian Hall, 184 Dudley St, Boston, MA 02119

This event, hosted by the Mayor’s Office of Veteran Affairs, will celebrate and honor the contributions and sacrifices of Black veterans in helping to create and add to the United States' legacy. The City will also be honoring deserving veterans with Community and Outstanding Service awards.

Building a Black Church for ALL

Thursday, February 26th, 6:00 - 7:45 p.m. 

Location: Roxbury Community College, Building 3, Boston MA

This in-person event brings together affirming Black pastors and community partners to explore the intersection of Black identity, queerness, and spirituality, uplifting inclusive faith spaces and fostering connection and belonging within Boston’s Black LGBTQIA2S+ community.