President Donald Trump will host a Black History Month celebration at the White House on Thursday, continuing a long-standing tradition despite recent executive actions to end federal diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs. The event, originally scheduled for last week but delayed due to weather, comes as Trump’s policies have stirred debate across federal agencies and beyond.
The East Room ceremony will feature prominent Black political figures, activists, and entertainers who support the president. Among the attendees are Republican Sen. Tim Scott of South Carolina, Republican Rep. John James of Michigan, prison reform advocate Alice Johnson, civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr.’s niece Alveda King, and football legend Herschel Walker. Additionally, former ESPN host Sage Steele, former NFL player Jack Brewer, and rappers Kodak Black, Lil Boosie, and Rod Wave are expected to participate.
Trump’s recent executive order, which targets DEI initiatives across federal agencies and influences private sector practices, has created uncertainty over the recognition of cultural observances like Black History Month. The Department of Defense has already announced an end to “identity months,” including Women’s History Month and National Disability Employment Awareness Month, while Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy declared his department would no longer observe identity-based celebrations. Secretary of State Marco Rubio similarly aligned the State Department’s policies with the administration’s stance.
Despite these measures, Trump’s official proclamation for National Black History Month encouraged Americans to honor the month with “appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities.” According to a White House official, federal agencies have discretion on whether to continue recognizing the observance.
CJ Pearson, a national co-chair of the Republican National Committee’s youth advisory council, defended the administration’s approach. “President Trump’s anti-DEI policies aren’t promoting racism,” Pearson said, citing Martin Luther King Jr.’s vision of judging individuals by character rather than skin color.
However, some Black Republicans, like strategist Raynard Jackson, voiced concerns about the long-term impact on the GOP’s outreach to voters of color. While acknowledging issues with DEI policies, Jackson warned that eliminating them without offering alternatives could alienate key voter demographics.
Trump’s campaign made strides with Black voters during the 2024 election, particularly among young Black men. AP VoteCast data showed that about 16% of Black voters supported Trump, doubling his support from 2020. Yet, around 80% of Black voters still backed Democrat Kamala Harris, underscoring the challenges Republicans face in expanding their coalition.
As Trump hosts Thursday’s celebration, the event serves as both a recognition of Black history and a backdrop to the broader debate over diversity policies, signaling ongoing political and cultural divisions as the nation observes Black History Month.