February is Black History Month. Learn more about Black history in Virginia, as well as ways to celebrate.
“Fort Monroe in Virginia was the site where the first Africans were brought in shackles to the Americas as slaves, and later Fort Monroe served as the first legal safe haven for freedom seekers before the Emancipation Proclamation. Throughout American history, Black Virginians have shown resilience and perseverance through political, social, and cultural oppression, from slavery, through Jim Crow and massive resistance, and have risen above to shape our lives today in countless ways.
Virginia was home to many distinguished and impactful Black Americans, including civil rights pioneers Oliver Hill, Spottswood Robinson, Booker T. Washington, Dr. Robert Russa Moton, Maggie L. Walker, Dorothy Height, and Mary W. Jackson, to name a few. Black Virginians continue to shape the economic, cultural, political, and landscapes of Virginia and the country. Today we recognize the historical obstacles and injustices that have been overcome, the work yet to be done, and stand in celebration for the successes of those who dared to challenge odds and barriers, and we remain committed to a bright future of opportunities for all.”
- Governor Glenn Youngkin
Throughout the month of February, notable Black men and women of Virginia's history will be featured.
Biography
Jennifer McClellan is Virginia’s first black congresswoman. She entered the U.S. Congress in 2023 after winning a special election to replace the late Congressman A. Donald McEachin.
A Virginia native, McClellan was born in Petersburg to parents who served the community: her father was a professor at Virginia State University and her mother was a counselor at VSU. McClellan attended Matoaca High School in Chesterfield County, where she was valedictorian. She earned her undergraduate degree from the University of Richmond, then obtained her Juris Doctorate from the University of Virginia School of Law.
Featured Man
As editor of the Richmond Planet, Mitchell was a leading voice in favor of racial equality and against segregation. Influential in Jackson Ward, the Black Wall Street of America, Mitchell founded and served as president of the Mechanics Savings Bank. Born a slave in Richmond shortly before the end of the Civil War, Mitchell's mother taught him to read. Her son went on to serve as a city alderman and even ran for governor as a Republican in 1921.
Biography
A creative and visionary professional, Erikka serves through her government public service position daily. Her own firm, Savoy Events, curates and manages social experiences including cultural pop-up events and curated nightlife experiences. Erikka is highly driven to serve her community and manages events including The Black upStart and Positive Role Models to benefit others striving to succeed.
To view the archived featured list of notable black men and women of Virginia featured on Virginia.gov click the button below.
Check out the resources below to learn more on Black history in Virginia.
In observance of Black History Month, the Library of Virginia and Dominion Energy honor distinguished Virginians, past and present, as Strong Men & Women in Virginia History for their important contributions to the state, the nation, or their professions.
Below is a brief featured list of Black history attractions that provide great resources for learning more about Black history in Virginia.
Featured Attractions
Celebrate Black History Month in Virginia by participating in a variety of events.
