"What was then called "Negro History Week" was created in 1926 by American historian, author, and journalist Carter G. Woodson. That celebration evolved into what is now known as Black History Month, which was first recognized by President Gerald Ford in 1976."
"The night's honorees included David Roach, founder of the Oakland International Film Fest. Also, filmmaking duo Derrick Williams and Adriane Hopper Williams. They are best known for their 2025 film, "Sarah's Oil," based on the true story of eleven year old Sarah Rector who became the country's first Black child millionaires in 1913 after being granted 160 acres of what was deemed useless land and ended up having oil."
"Spoken word artist RyanNicole, Oakland singer and "America's Got Talent" top 10 finalist Dee Dee Simon, cultural ambassador Queen Iminah, and DJ Yaddos were among the night's performers. Oscar Grant's mother, Wanda Johnson, was on-site selling and signing copies of her 2024 book "From Tragedy To Triumph: Life After Loss," about losing her son to police violence."
Oakland held a centennial celebration of Black History Month at the Henry J. Kaiser Center for the Arts, hosted by City Council President Kevin Jenkins and three Black councilmembers. Attendees wore African textiles and enjoyed soul food and wine from African American vendors. The event, titled "Black History in Motion: Culture, Community & the Future We Build," featured performances by spoken word artist RyanNicole, singer Dee Dee Simon, cultural ambassador Queen Iminah, and DJ Yaddos. Awards were presented to honorees including David Roach, founder of the Oakland International Film Fest, and filmmaking duo Derrick Williams and Adriane Hopper Williams. Wanda Johnson, mother of Oscar Grant, sold copies of her book about police violence. Mayor Barbara Lee attended the event, which was supported by various organizations.
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