Black History is for everyone.
We invite our neighbors from all walks of life to join us in learning about Black history and celebrating the Black community in Columbus and beyond.
2025 Black History Month Columbus Theme
“From Slavery to Philanthropy:
The Invaluable Contributions of Black Labor”
Welcome to Black History Month Columbus! This year, we proudly celebrate the theme, “From Slavery to Philanthropy: The Invaluable Contributions of Black Labor,” as we honor the resilience, innovation, and achievements of the Black community in Columbus and beyond.
Why This Theme Matters
Black labor has always been a cornerstone of progress—from the agricultural work of enslaved Africans that powered economies to the self-determination of entrepreneurs, labor advocates, and community builders. It represents resilience and innovation in the face of injustice.
This year’s theme celebrates stories of strength and triumph:
Resilience is Resistance: Every success in the Black community reflects a legacy of overcoming systemic barriers and advocating for equity.
Black History is Our History: Black labor is inseparable from the story of America, shaping the nation’s cultural, economic, and social landscape.
It’s All Love: Celebrating Black culture with joy and inclusion fosters understanding and connection, inviting everyone to learn, reflect, and grow together.
By connecting with the national theme, “African Americans and Labor,” we honor the collective contributions of Black laborers throughout history while acknowledging their ongoing impact on our communities. Join us!
Take a look at the incredible energy and celebration of BHMC in 2024!
Your support makes a lasting impact in our community.
We aim to create momentum for community healing through inspiring and educational experiences. Your donation will support our year-round efforts to celebrate and honor Black history in Columbus and beyond.
“The thing about Black history is that the truth is so much more complex than anything you could make up.”
— Henry Louis Gates

Black history is our history.
It is inseparable from American history because Black people help shape our world, our country, and our community. We’re passionate about empowering and educating people to create positive change.
Presenting Sponsor of BHMC 2025
Event Sponsor
Columbus Enrichment Program (CEP)
Columbus Propellor
Columbus Regional Health (CRH)
Columbus Young Professionals of Color
Community Education Coalition (CEC)-Umoja
First Presbyterian Church
Foundation For Youth (FFY)
H3 Athletics
Indiana University Columbus
Ivy Tech Community College
Landmark Columbus
NAACP Columbus/Bartholomew
Nexus Park
Paths To Success (PTS)
Prisoner Moms of Faith
Stunna Meal Prep
Swine & Dine
Turning Point
United Way Bartholomew County
YES Cinema
Community Event Partner Organizations
African Alliance for Pastors Alliance (AAPA)
African American Foundation (AAF)
Bartholomew Co. Sheriff’s Department
Bartholomew County Historical Society
Bartholomew Consolidated School Corporation (BCSC)
Bartholomew County Public Library (BCPL)
Beloved
City of Columbus
City of Columbus-Human Rights Commission
Join us in celebrating Black History all year long!
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