Los Angeles Leads Nation in Citywide Black History Observance
As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary, Los Angeles is making a bold declaration: Black History will not be erased. For 76 years, Our Authors Study Club, Inc. (OASC) has been at the forefront of citywide Black History celebrations, and this year's observance is more urgent than ever.A Legacy of Resistance
Founded in 1945 by educator Vassie D. Wright, OASC began as a grassroots study collective when Black History was excluded from schools, libraries, and public institutions. Today, it remains one of the nation's longest-running unified citywide Black History celebrations, sustained across generations and supported by nine Los Angeles mayors.
Honoring Pioneers
During the City Hall ceremony, Councilmembers Heather Hutt (District 10), Nithya Raman (District 4), and Traci Park (District 11) presented honors to the 2026 award recipients. Living Legends Pillar Awards were given to Denise Nicholas, actress and author, and Charles Dickson, artist and sculptor, for their contributions to Black History.
Celebrating Innovation
Hall of Fame Inspiration of Life Awards were presented to DMA Anderson, technology entrepreneur and inventor, and Antwone Fisher, best-selling author and award-winning screenwriter. Their work has preserved Black History through personal narrative and leveraged innovation to expand access and civic participation.
A Celebration for the Ages
The 76th Our Authors Study Club, Inc. (OASC) Citywide Black History Celebration kicked off on February 4 in the Mayors' Chambers followed by a ceremony inside the City Council Chambers at the Los Angeles City Hall. The launch coincides with two historic milestones: America's semiquincentennial and the 2026 national Black History theme, 'A Century of Black History Commemorations,' issued by the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH).
As Los Angeles leads the nation in citywide Black History observance, it's clear that this year's celebration is not just a commemoration of the past but also a declaration of intent to protect truth, affirm identity, and ensure future generations inherit the full American story.
