2026 African American Heritage Month Annual Black History Round Table Discussion on A Century of Black History Commemorations and New Student Poster Reception

In recognition of the national theme, A Century of Black History Commemorations, this year’s panel reflects on the enduring legacy of Dr. Carter G. Woodson and the founders of the Association for the Study of African American Life and History, whose work institutionalized the study, teaching, and commemoration of Black history. From Negro History Week in 1926 to Black History Month 1976, these observances have shaped historical consciousness. Moderated by popular co-anchor of ABC7 Eyewitness News, Marc Brown, join local scholars: Dr. Anthony Asadullah Samad, Executive Director, Mervyn M. Dymally African American Political & Economic Institute (MDAAPEI), California State University, Dominguez Hills; Dr. Francille Rousan Wilson, associate Professor of American Studies, Dr. Maulana Karenga, Chair Africana Studies, California State University, Long Beach, Executive Director African American Cultural Center and Creator of Pan African Holiday Kwanzaa; Dr. M. Keith Claybrook, incoming Chair of Africana Studies at CSULB ;Dr. Marne Campbell, Chair of African American Studies at Loyola Marymount University and Dr. Donna J. Nicol, Associate Dean of Personnel and Curriculum and professor of history, California State University Long Beach. Scholars, students, and community members are invited to attend, engage in dialogue, and participate in this meaningful exploration of Black history and its enduring impact.