“ In 2026, marking 100 years of officially observed Black History, former President Barack Obama emphasized that Black history is fundamental American history, not separate from it. 

“ In 2026, marking 100 years of officially observed Black History, former President Barack Obama emphasized that Black history is fundamental American history, not separate from it. 

Obama urged Americans to honor the sacrifices of past leaders, reflect on the progress made, and continue the ongoing work toward equality. 

• 100 Years of Reflection: President Obama highlighted that for a century, Black history has been recognized as essential to the nation’s story, shaping America’s culture, economy, and democracy.
• A Call to Action: In his 2026 messages, Obama stated, “Let’s honor the sacrifices of the leaders who came before us, and recommit ourselves to continuing their work”.
• Core Message: He argued that understanding Black history is crucial for understanding the true, full, and sometimes challenging history of the United States.
• Beyond February: Obama emphasized that Black history should be celebrated daily, not just during Black History Month, noting that “One month, a year is not sufficient to celebrate the power of a movement”. 

As the 44th President of the United States and the first African American to hold the office, Obama’s reflections in 2026—celebrating 100 years since Carter G. Woodson first launched Negro History Week in 1926—underscore the continued evolution of American equality. “

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