Black History Month at 100: Culture, Belonging, and Mental Health
In 2026, we proudly celebrate Black History Month’s 100th anniversary, a powerful milestone honoring a century of recognizing, preserving, and uplifting Black history, culture, and achievement.
At The Steve Fund, we understand that celebrating Black history is not only about remembrance. It is about well-being.
The preservation and celebration of culture are deeply connected to mental health. Awareness of one’s history, traditions, and collective contributions creates grounding. Grounding is essential for emotional stability, identity formation, and resilience.
Culture as a Foundation for Mental Health
In The Steve Fund’s Student Mental Health on Campus Survey, more than 80% of Black and other racially diverse students reported wanting their college or university to tailor programming to reflect their cultural backgrounds. This finding is clear: young people thrive when their environments affirm who they are.
Cultural consciousness anchors individuals. It provides:
- A sense of identity
- A sense of continuity and ancestral connection
- A sense of belonging
Belonging is not simply a social preference; it is a psychological necessity. Research consistently shows that when individuals feel they belong, they are more likely to flourish academically, socially, and emotionally.
“Cultural identity is not peripheral to mental health; it is central to it. When young people feel connected to their history, affirmed in their lived experience, and supported in environments that reflect who they are, their resilience deepens, and their capacity to thrive expands.”
— Dr. Annelle Primm, Senior Medical Director, The Steve Fund
When students see themselves reflected in curriculum, programming, leadership, and community spaces, they feel secure. And when they feel secure, they can grow.
Belonging Begets Thriving
At The Steve Fund, we often talk about creating spaces where young people can feel seen, heard, and valued. In My Digital Sanctuary, our digital safe space, we center pillars like Hope, Love, Justice, and Soul Care because mental health is strengthened when identity is affirmed, and community is nurtured.
Belonging fuels:
- Confidence
- Emotional regulation
- Self-advocacy
- Academic persistence
- Long-term wellness
When young people feel connected to their cultural roots and supported in their environments, they are better equipped to navigate stress, uncertainty, and life transitions.
Stories of Triumph, Ingenuity, and Innovation
Black history is a story of brilliance. It is a story of innovation in science and technology; creativity in art and music; courage in civil rights and social progress; and intellectual excellence, entrepreneurship, and global influence.
Reading and learning about these stories reinforces strength. It reminds young people that they come from resilience and possibility. That knowledge can be deeply empowering.
Celebrating Black culture affirms that identity is not something to minimize; it is something to honor.
Self-Love as an Act of Wellness
As we celebrate Black History Month, we also recognize that February holds Valentine’s Day, a reminder that love begins within.
Self-love is not indulgence. It is maintenance.
Consider practicing:
- Positive self-talk
- Adequate rest
- Nourishment and hydration
- Movement and recreational activities
- Mindfulness or quiet reflection
- Creative expression
These are not luxuries. They are ingredients of sustained mental wellness.
In moments of stress or self-doubt, grounding yourself in your history and identity can be restorative. When you remember who you are and whose legacy you carry, you build internal strength.
Moving Forward Together
As Black History Month marks its 100th year, we recommit ourselves to advancing environments where Black students and other young people of color can feel affirmed, supported, and empowered.
At The Steve Fund, we will continue to:
- Advocate for culturally responsive campus programming
- Promote mental health awareness in diverse communities
- Develop resources that reflect lived experiences
- Create safe spaces, both digital and in person, where belonging is centered
Culture matters. Identity matters. Belonging matters. And when we honor them, mental health is strengthened for generations to come.