Black History Month Observance Breakfast Draws Sold-Out Crowd for 41st Annual Celebration

A sold-out crowd gathered Monday morning, Feb. 16, 2026, for the 41st annual Black History Month Observance Breakfast, an event that has become a cornerstone of the community’s annual celebration of heritage, leadership and service.

Hosted by U.S. Rep. Sanford D. Bishop Jr., the breakfast honored local residents whose work continues to shape the region’s present and future. This year’s theme, “Your Voice Matters,” encouraged attendees to stand firm in their beliefs and actively participate in civic life

Serving as keynote speaker was U.S. Rep. Joyce Beatty, who represents Ohio’s 3rd Congressional District. Beatty reflected on her personal connection to Black History Month and the civil rights movement.

“Black History Month is personal to me,” Beatty said. “I grew up in an era of time in the civil rights movement. Black history means so much to me. I try to make my life and my work committed to advancing all of the things Black history represents.”

Beatty urged the audience to remain engaged and vocal in the face of social and political challenges, emphasizing that progress requires participation and unity.

Bishop, who has served as honorary chair of the breakfast since 1993, was recognized for his longstanding commitment to the event and to the broader community. Over more than three decades, he has played a pivotal role in sustaining the observance and advocating for

Oz Roberts, chairman of the committee said, “The primary mission of the breakfast remains twofold: to celebrate the rich history and contributions of African Americans, and to inspire hope and action for the future. Bishop’s leadership has helped ensure that the event continues to grow in impact and significance. Proceeds from the breakfast have supported and recognized agencies and organizations pro­viding charitable, cultural, social, educational, and other essential services throughout the Columbus area.”

The program also included recognition of community leaders across several categories.

Legacy Awards were presented to:

• Rev. Dr. Emmett S. Aniton Jr.
• Pastor Dr. Wayne D. Baker
• Pastor Farnsworth Coleman Sr.

The Trailblazer Award was awarded to Rev. Valerie Thompson.

The Unsung Hero Award went to Superior Court Judge Ben Richardson.

The Emerging Leader Award was presented to Rev. Cory Neal.

Honored as Points of Light were:

• Rob Scott
• Kia Chambers
• Attorney LaRae Dixon Moore
• Loretta Rose
• Claudett Jefferson Moss
• Solicitor General Shevon Thomas
• Pauline I. Johnson
• Wanda Rutledge
• Patricia Eldridge
• James “Monk” Johnson

As attendees departed, the message of the morning lingered: history is not merely something to remember — it is something to build upon. With packed tables, resounding applause and renewed resolve, the 41st annual breakfast reaffirmed that in Columbus and beyond, every voice truly matters.