A Century of Commemorations: Reflecting on Black History Month

By: Theresa Hopkins-Staten

The Sankofa bird is a power Ghanaian symbol that beautifully captures the idea of “going back to get it,” with a recognition the past is a compass, the future our destination.

Every February, we reflect on past experiences, honor Black Trailblazers who have paved the path forward for change and equality and celebrate pivotal moments that created a more empowered and equitable future for Black Americans.

Progress did not happen in isolation; the movement took a community of known and unknown s/heroes united by a shared mission and vision to treat all human beings with dignity and respect.

The theme for Black History Month 2026 across the United States is, A Century of Black History Commemorations. This theme invites us to reflect on the past, honoring those whose legacy lives on, and those carrying it forward like Fannie Lou Hamer; Dr. Dorothy Irene Height; Stephanie Thomas, Secretary of the State of Connecticut; Andrea Joy Campbell, Attorney General of Massachusetts; and former First Lady Michelle Obama. Their work reminds us of what we can achieve with unwavering faith, courage, leadership, and a bold commitment to dismantling injustice and expanding opportunity.

We are at a critical inflection point for our future. Let us carry forward the lessons of our past and let them guide our next steps with clarity, purpose, and intention. Today, we must decide what kind of legacy we want to leave for the next generation. We can do this by supporting organizations like NEWIEE, in its mission to remove barriers to advancement and to ensure equal opportunity for all.

Written by

Theresa Hopkins-Staten

President, Eversource Foundation

Vice President, Corporate Citizenship and Equity, Eversource Energy

Member NEWIEE DEI Committee

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