Black History Month: Honoring a legacy that still shapes health today
Black History Month is a time to celebrate the people and stories that have shaped our country. In 2026, we mark a special moment: 100 years since the start of Negro History Week, created in 1926 by historian Carter G. Woodson. Over time, that week grew into what we now know today as Black History Month.
This milestone is also a time to think on how Black history continues to shape health care in our communities.
Black history is health history
Many important advances in medicine and public health were made by African American doctors, scientists and community leaders. Often, their work was not fully recognized. Still, their efforts helped build the health care systems we count on today.
These leaders believed in:
- Preventing illness before it starts.
- Caring for the whole person.
- Supporting communities, not just individuals.
These ideas are still important today and guide how health plans like the Alliance support members and families.
Black leaders who changed health care
Here are just a few African American leaders whose work continues to impact health and wellness:
- Rebecca Lee Crumpler – The first African American woman doctor in the United States. She focused on caring for women and children and believed everyone deserved access to health care.
- Charles Drew – A doctor and researcher who helped grow modern blood banks, making it possible to safely store and share blood to save lives.
- Joycelyn Elders – The first African American U.S. Surgeon General. She spoke openly about prevention, health education and the importance of community health.
- Kizzmekia Corbett – A leading scientist in vaccine research who has also worked to build trust in science and grow representation in medical research.
Moving forward together
This month reminds us that health equity — fair access to care for everyone — has deep roots. It comes from generations of leadership, advocacy and care for one another.
This reflection also comes during a special year for the Alliance as we celebrate 30 years of serving our local communities. Our shared focus on prevention, equity and care continues to guide the work we do for our members today. We celebrate the past while working toward a healthier future — together.
