A Celebration of Life: Honoring Dr. Quintard Taylor Jr. and His Legacy

Introduction to the Event

In a heartfelt tribute to an extraordinary life, BlackPast.org invites the community to honor Dr. Quintard Taylor Jr. on February 7, 2026. The event, titled “A Celebration of Life & A Commemoration of Black History,” will take place at New Beginnings Christian Fellowship in Kent, WA. This free community gathering will not only celebrate the life of Dr. Taylor but also highlight the profound importance of Black history, a subject to which he devoted his life and work.

About Dr. Quintard Taylor Jr.

Dr. Quintard Taylor was not just an educator and historian; he was a transformative figure in the field of Black history. His remarkable journey began in humble roots as the grandchild of the formerly enslaved and the son of sharecroppers. He understood education’s value firsthand, and it shaped his commitment to historical scholarship. Over his illustrious career, Dr. Taylor authored more than seven books and mentored countless historians, leaving an indelible mark on academia.

Dr. Taylor was the founder of BlackPast.org, which has grown into the world’s largest online encyclopedia on Black history. His initial vision—a simple platform for students to share their research—has blossomed into the premier resource for information on African American history and global Black history, influencing scholars and enthusiasts alike.

Event Highlights

The celebration will kick off at 3 p.m. with an electrifying live performance by Adefua Cultural Drumming and Dance, setting the stage for a vibrant afternoon filled with cultural expression. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore displays of Dr. Taylor’s publications, showcasing his extensive contributions to the field of history.

Interactive booths featuring notable organizations like Estelita’s Library, the Unspoken Truths Traveling African American Museum, and the University of Washington will provide engaging experiences for all guests. This interactive element allows attendees to connect with Dr. Taylor’s impact personally, fostering community engagement.

Messages of Resilience and Community

As part of the homage, the event will feature performances by the New Beginnings Mass Choir and speeches from distinguished faith leaders. Community luminaries, including Lieutenant Governor Denny Heck, will share testimonials, offering insights into how Dr. Taylor’s work has touched and transformed lives.

The atmosphere will be both celebratory and reflective, as guests are encouraged to sign a guest book and share their memories of Dr. Taylor, allowing his legacy to live on through personal anecdotes and collective remembrance.

Acknowledgments and Support

This commemorative event is made possible through a grant and support from Casey Family Programs and a sponsorship from AARP Washington, underscoring the community’s commitment to honoring the legacy of Dr. Taylor and preserving Black history for future generations.

Event Information Recap

• What: A Celebration of Life & A Commemoration of Black History
• When: Saturday, February 7, 2026, at 3 p.m.
• Where: New Beginnings Christian Fellowship, 19300 108th Avenue Southeast, Kent, WA 98031

The Vision of BlackPast.org

Established to provide comprehensive, accurate information about African American history in the United States and beyond, BlackPast.org aims to foster understanding through knowledge. The organization continuously works to inspire constructive change within society by shining a light on the narratives that shape the Black experience.

Continuing Dr. Taylor’s Legacy

As BlackPast.org approaches its 20th anniversary, this celebration serves as both a remembrance of Dr. Taylor’s remarkable journey and a look toward the future of the organization. His commitment to preserving history ensures that the stories of black lives and experiences remain a vital part of the national narrative, enriching our understanding of the past while guiding the course of future scholarship and community engagement.

This community-centric event promises to be an enriching experience, reflecting the spirit of Dr. Taylor’s legacy and the ongoing importance of Black history in our collective consciousness.