Manasota asalh
Our mission
To promote, research, preserve, interpret and disseminate information about black life history and culture.
YOU'RE INVITED!
Black History Month Scholarship Luncheon
February 6, 2026 | 11:30 am
Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, Sarasota
With special guests
Dr. Jim Stuart and Dr. Maurice Hobson
Tickets: $125 per person
Sponsorships Available
Ticket Sale deadline: Friday, January 30, 2026
Tickets may be purchased by check. Checks should be made payable to Manasota ASALH, Inc. and mailed to
Manasota ASALH, Inc.
Post Office Box 2356
Sarasota, Florida 34230
engage, nurture, and INVEST IN THE FUTURE
FREEDOM SCHOOL
On Saturdays and after School, students grades K–12 have an opportunity to explore powerful stories, movements, and leaders in Black history.
Our nurturing and knowledgeable teachers incorporate fun, interactive learning into building a future rooted in truth, unity, and community. Freedom School is free, inclusive, and open to all.
SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM
To date, we have awarded more than $701,000 in scholarships to 333 students in the Sarasota and Manatee region—a powerful testament to the our mission to advance educational equity and opportunity. To support our scholarship program, click here.
Students: The deadline to apply is Feb 15, 2026.
About Manasota ASALH
Who We Are
Support Our Work
Support Our Work
Our team is committed to celebrating African/American achievement, enhancing understanding of the culture, and, most importantly, actively involving youth in the process.
Support Our Work
Support Our Work
Support Our Work
Through our Freedom School, scholarships and programs, we provide education, and paths to leadership and empowerment - while building community partnerships.
Join Us
Support Our Work
Join Us
Join us for events that bring our mission to life. From our annual Holiday Luncheon to scholarship celebrations, each gathering offers an opportunity to connect, learn, and make a difference.
BECOME A MEMBER
Manasota ASALH is the largest branch in the national ASALH network, and one of the most active. Join our branch and get involved!
You'll enjoy staying informed, the social aspects, and the benefits of membership.
MEET OUR FOUNDER
Dr. Carter G. Woodson
Dr. Carter G. Woodson, the Father of Black History Month, founded the Association for the Study of African-American Life and History (ASALH) on September 9, 1915.
He was born in Virginia in 1875, earned his Harvard Doctorate in 1912, and died at age 74 in 1950. Manasota ASALH honors his work and memory as the most active branch in the nation.
“When you control a man’s thinking, you do not have to worry about his actions. He will find his “proper place” and stay in it. You do not need to send him to the back door. He will go without being told. In fact, if there is no back door, he will protest until one is made for his use. His education demands it.”
SAVE THE DATE!
111th ASALH Annual Conference
It's not too early to plan for the 2026 ASALH National Conference in Norfolk Virginia that takes place on Sept 23-27 at the Marriott Norfolk Waterside.