Black History Month 2025 Focuses on African American Labor

Black History Month has been observed since 1926, with a different theme each year except for the first two. Last year’s theme focused on African Americans and the Arts, and the year prior centered on Black Resistance. This year’s theme is African Americans and Labor.

The Association for the Study of African American Life and History developed the theme to encourage reflection on the connections between Black people’s work, workplaces, and key moments in Black history and culture across time and space, including the U.S., Africa, and the Diaspora. The association stated that studying African Americans’ labor and labor struggles is important for understanding the Black past, present, and future, particularly as racial oppression persists.

Groups celebrating Black History Month are incorporating this year’s theme into their commemorations. The National Museum of African American History and Culture has curated “Slavery’s Wake: Making Black Freedom in the World,” which aims to immerse visitors in the freedom-making practices of Black communities navigating the histories and legacies of racial slavery and colonialism. The museum is hosting events, programs, and tours honoring African Americans and Labor.

This year’s Black History Month occurs as diversity, equity, and inclusion programs are being reduced in the federal workforce under President Donald Trump. President Trump has signed executive orders intended to eliminate DEI programs from private companies with federal contracts. The NAACP has opposed these measures. President Trump has stated that DEI programs prioritize diversity over merit.