Presented by the Serendipity Institute for Black Arts and Heritage, Scrap It, Revamp It: 100 Years of Black History Commemorations (1926–2026) runs from 23 February to 18 December 2026. The exhibition reflects on the origins, development and international legacy of what would become Black History Month.
From 1926 to a Global Observance
In February 1926, historian Carter G. Woodson launched Negro History Week in response to the exclusion of African American history from mainstream education. He chose the second week of February to coincide with the birthdays of Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln — dates already observed within Black communities as moments to reflect on emancipation and citizenship.
Woodson’s initiative sought to embed Black history within educational structures rather than treat it as an occasional addition. Over time, Negro History Week expanded in scope and recognition, becoming Black History Month in the United States in 1976.
In the United Kingdom, Black History Month was first formally observed in October 1987, following advocacy from community leaders and cultural organisations who recognised the need to acknowledge the histories and contributions of African and Caribbean communities in Britain. Since then, October has become a recognised fixture in the UK cultural calendar.
Today, Black History Month is observed in multiple countries, though the timing and themes vary. Its core purpose — ensuring that Black history is recognised as an integral part of national and global histories — remains consistent.
Marking the Centenary in Leicester
Scrap It, Revamp It: 100 Years of Black History Commemorations (1926–2026) situates Leicester within this wider historical narrative. The exhibition examines how Black History Month has evolved over the past century — from community-led educational initiatives to programming within arts institutions, universities and public bodies.
Rather than presenting a single linear account, the exhibition explores the changing forms and debates surrounding Black history commemorations. It considers how different generations have interpreted the purpose of Black History Month, and how institutional structures have shaped its development.
By running from February through December 2026, the exhibition intentionally reflects both the US origins of Negro History Week and the broader international calendar of Black History Month observances. This extended duration also allows audiences to engage with the centenary beyond a single commemorative moment.
As a Black-led arts organisation with a strong record in research, publishing and cultural programming, the Serendipity Institute for Black Arts and Heritage provides an appropriate setting for this reflection on history and continuity.
Admission to Scrap It, Revamp It is free during the venue’s opening hours, reinforcing the principle that access to Black history — central to Woodson’s original vision — remains fundamental a century later.
Looking Ahead
The centenary of Negro History Week offers an opportunity to reflect on how Black history has moved from the margins of formal education to a recognised presence within schools, universities, archives and cultural institutions.
At the same time, it raises practical questions about sustainability, representation and the role of institutions in shaping historical understanding. Through Scrap It, Revamp It: 100 Years of Black History Commemorations (1926–2026), visitors are invited to consider not only how Black History Month began, but how it continues to evolve.
As Black History Month enters its second century, the Leicester exhibition provides a timely space for reflection on its legacy — and its future.
Exhibition Details
Scrap It, Revamp It: 100 Years of Black History Commemorations (1926–2026)
23 February – 18 December 2026
10:00–16:30 (during venue opening hours)
Serendipity Institute for Black Arts and Heritage
8 Bowling Green Street, Leicester, LE1 6AT
Free entry