Originally published in the Chillicothe Gazette on Feb. 15, 2026

In 1926, a group of passionate individuals and educators had an idea. This group included the founder of the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH), Dr. Carter G. Woodson. Together, they established a nationally recognized week dedicated to Black History. A week intended to get communities excited. To increase education and create opportunities for consistent and constant learning.

This goal, along with their passion and commitment, drew more people to the cause. Tireless work over the next five decades grew that week into the entire month of February. In 1976, Black History Month became nationally and internationally recognized. Inspiring curiosity, conversation, and commemoration.

In fact, the theme for Black History Month this year is “A Century of Black History Commemorations.” Ohio University Chillicothe, in partnership with the Chillicothe and Ross County Public Library and the Ross County Chapter of the NAACP, invites you to an evening of celebration at 6:30 p.m. Feb. 19 in the Bennett Hall Auditorium.

The evening begins with light refreshments. At 7 p.m., featured speaker Alicia Gray will take the stage. Gray is a long-time educator and community leader. Currently, she serves as special collections librarian, archivist, and grants coordinator for the Ross County Historical Society.

Enjoy the beautiful voices of the Unified Gospel Choir, directed by Ric McConnell. Learn about and participate in the KuKu rhythm with Lawrence Greene, founder of Ugata Drum and Dance in Athens.

Don’t miss an exhibition of the late Queen Lester’s hats, hosted in the Patricia Scott Memorial Art Gallery. Lester was an active member of many organizations like the NAACP and League of Women Voters. She also served on the board of the Chillicothe and Ross County Public Library.

This event is free and open to the public.

Black History Month was created as an opportunity to educate. Keep learning by checking out the following resources:

To explore local and family history, please visit crcpl.org/elibrary. Access ProQuest Historical Newspapers: Ohio Collection and Proquest African American Heritage database free with your library card.

Sheena Brown is an Enrichment, Marketing and Communications Clerk at the Chillicothe and Ross County Public Library