This February marks a historic milestone: 100 years of celebrating Black history, resilience, and excellence worldwide.
But here in Germany, the story of Black History Month (BHM) is unique. It is not a story of top-down recognition, but one of bottom-up power. It is a story of community initiative, self-determination, and the unwavering commitment of Black, African, and Afro-diasporic individuals to honour their own history.
As we prepare to gather for the Afrotreff | Black History Month Edition 2026, we want to take a moment to reflect on this powerful legacy and why coming together in community has never been more important.
A Movement Born from Community
While the first Black History Month was celebrated in the United States in 1926, the tradition found its footing in Germany much later, driven by the very people whose history was being told.
Since the 1990s, Black History Month in Germany has been organised voluntarily by Black self-organisations. Starting in cities like Berlin and Hamburg, these grassroots efforts have grown into a nationwide movement. For decades, this work has been done without official political recognition and without a dedicated budget. It is a testament to the power of community: when we are not given a seat at the table, we build our own.
Why We Still Gather
In a world that often tries to marginalise or erase our stories, gathering is a radical act of preservation.
The Afrotreff was founded on the belief that history meets community. It is a space where the past is not just remembered, but carried forward through connection. It is where elders can share wisdom with the next generation, where conversations spark new ideas, and where we remind ourselves that we are not alone.
Join Us in Köln
It is in this spirit of grassroots legacy that we invite you to our special Black History Month Edition 2026.
This is more than just an evening event; it is a homecoming. Expect a warm and inclusive environment designed for meaningful dialogue, cultural exchange, and genuine networking. Whether you are deeply involved in the diaspora community or an ally looking to learn and connect, you are welcome here.
Event Details:
- 📅 Date: Friday, 20 February 2026
- 🕕 Time: 18:00 – 21:00
- 📍 Venue: Theodor Wonja Michael Bibliothek
Quartier am Hafen, Poller Kirchweg 78–90, 51105 Köln
Theodor Wonja Michael, the library’s namesake, was a survivor, an activist, and a voice for Black Germans. It is a profound honour to hold this gathering in a space that bears his name a physical reminder that our history is rooted in real people and real struggles.
Looking Forward
As we celebrate 100 years of Black History Month, we honour the ancestors who made this possible and the grassroots organisers across Germany who keep the flame alive today.
We look forward to welcoming you to Köln on February 20th. Let’s reflect, learn, and build the future together.
🔗 Learn more about Afrotreff at: www.afrotreff.de
We’d love to have you! While RSVPs are appreciated to help us plan, spontaneous visits are always welcome. Bring a friend—the more, the merrier!”