Trump basks in Black History Month praise, dodging racism claims


U.S. President Donald Trump speaks, as Ben Carson listens, during a Black History Month reception at the White House in Washington, D.C., U.S., February 18, 2026. REUTERS/Kevin Lamarque

WASHINGTON, Feb 18 (Reuters) - U.S. President Donald Trump on ⁠Wednesday highlighted top Black administration officials, rejected accusations of racism and promised “a century more” of success for African Americans during a White House celebration ⁠marking 100 years of Black History Month.

The president's upbeat remarks stood in contrast to criticism of the administration's ongoing efforts to dismantle diversity, ‌equity and inclusion policies. The event also came nearly two weeks after an uproar over a social media post on the president’s account that featured a racist depiction of former President Barack Obama and first lady Michelle Obama as apes.

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