U.S. Black Chambers, Inc. Commemorates One Century of Honoring Black History Month

[WASHINGTON, D.C.] February 2, 2026 — As the nation observes Black History Month 2026, the U.S. Black Chambers, Inc. (USBC) proudly joins communities across the country in marking a historic milestone: 100 years since the first national observance of Black history. This centennial moment is commemorated through a national initiative recognizing the profound impact of Black Americans on every sector of society—past, present, and future.

First envisioned by Dr. Carter G. Woodson in 1926, the national observance of Black history was created to ensure that the contributions, struggles, and achievements of Black Americans would be acknowledged, preserved, and taught. One hundred years later, that legacy continues to evolve—shaping America’s economy, culture, democracy, and global influence.

“Black history is American history—and it is still being written,” said Ron Busby Sr., President & CEO of the U.S. Black Chambers, Inc. “For a century, Black Americans have driven innovation, excellence, and progress across business, sports, science, the arts, public service, and beyond—often while overcoming systemic barriers. It is both a celebration of that legacy and a call to action to protect and expand it for future generations.”

Throughout the past 100 years, Black leaders and pioneers have transformed industries, broken barriers, and redefined possibility—from entrepreneurship and finance to athletics, medicine, education, entertainment, and technology. Today’s innovators and business owners continue that tradition, building enterprises that fuel local economies and create jobs nationwide.

We also highlights history in the making through the development of the USBC Innovation Campus—a transformative initiative rooted in legacy and designed for the future. USBC has purchased the historic former BET Campus, a landmark synonymous with Black culture, storytelling, and media influence. Once a powerhouse that amplified Black voices globally, the campus now enters its next chapter.

From BET to USBC, the site is being reimagined as a Black Business Incubator, National Media Hub, Innovation Center, and cultural landmark, creating a dynamic ecosystem where entrepreneurship, creativity, workforce development, and access to capital converge. The USBC Innovation Campus represents the organization’s long-term commitment to strengthening Black-owned businesses, advancing economic equity, and ensuring that Black innovation and ownership remain central to America’s economic future—for the next 100 years and beyond.

“The future of Black history is inseparable from the future of Black economic power,” Busby added. “The USBC Innovation Campus is an investment in opportunity, ownership, and generational wealth—ensuring that Black businesses not only survive, but lead in the century ahead.”

In commemoration of Black History Month, USBC invites individuals, corporations, and partners to:

• Donate to the USBC Innovation Campus through philanthropic contributions that directly invest in Black economic growth.
• Join the U.S. Black Chambers, Inc. as a member and become part of a national movement advocating for Black-owned businesses, policy advancement, and sustainable economic development.
• Join the ByBlack Platform and Get Certified to unlock increased visibility, access to contracting opportunities, corporate supply chains, and resources designed to help Black-owned businesses grow and compete nationally.

As the nation reflects on one century of honoring Black history, USBC reaffirms its commitment to building a future rooted in ownership, innovation, and collective prosperity—one where Black businesses are fully integrated into global supply chains, communities thrive through economic opportunity, and the legacy of Black excellence continues to shape America’s growth for generations to come.

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About USBC:

The U.S. Black Chambers, Inc. (USBC) provides committed, visionary leadership and advocacy in the realization of economic empowerment. Through the creation of resources and initiatives, we support a network of African American Chambers of Commerce and business organizations in their work of developing and growing Black enterprises. Learn more at usblackchambers.org.