2026 observance theme is “A Century of Black History Commemoration”
DANE COUNTY, Wis. — On Thursday, Feb. 5, 2026, the Dane County Board of Supervisors officially recognized February 2026 as Black History Month. The board passed 2025 RES-323 to mark this observance and to honor the history, achievements, and contributions of Black Americans in Dane County and nationwide.
Black History Month has been observed in the United States since 1926, marking 2026 as the centennial year of national efforts to explore, document, and celebrate Black history, culture, and progress, while recognizing the continued pursuit of equity and justice.
“Black History Month is both a celebration and a call to action. As we recognize the history, resilience, and contributions of Black communities, we must also acknowledge the inequities and disparities that continue to exist in Dane County and across our nation,” said County Board Chair Patrick Miles. “The county board remains committed to doing the work of advancing equity, strengthening opportunity, and building a community where every resident can thrive.”
The county board also recognized the contributions of The Center for Black Excellence and Culture, Inc. (The Center) and celebrated the soon-to-be-opened community-centered cultural space dedicated to promoting health and wellness, leadership and innovation, performing and visual arts, youth and family engagement, and the overall well-being of the Black community.
“I’m deeply grateful to the Dane County Board for this meaningful Black History Month recognition,” said Rev. Dr. Alex Gee, founder and CEO of The Center. “The County’s early $2 million investment made it possible to complete this project on time, and as a lifelong Madisonian and Dane County resident, that support is deeply personal. I’m proud to be part of a team building something that helps put Dane County on the map as a place where Black people can truly belong, lead, and thrive.”
The Dane County Board of Supervisors reaffirms its commitment to recognizing Black history as an essential part of American history and to advancing continued learning, dialogue, equity, and action that strengthen community connections and promote inclusion for present and future generations.
