The Black History Film Festival (BHFF), one of the nation’s leading showcases dedicated to preserving and uplifting African American stories, is preparing for its biggest year yet. In February 2026, the festival will launch a landmark four-city expansion, hosting simultaneous events in Atlanta, Washington, D.C., Miami, and Oakland. Actor, educator, and humanitarian Lamman Rucker has been named the 2026 Celebrity Ambassador, lending his influence and commitment to cultural storytelling to the festival’s national stage.
Founded in 2008 at Atlanta’s Woodruff Arts Center, BHFF has spent nearly two decades spotlighting documentaries, features, and short films that honor overlooked Black heroes and celebrate the depth of Black contributions to American and global history. Its upcoming expansion represents a pivotal step in its evolution—from a respected regional event into a coast-to-coast cultural movement.
Festival organizers call the 2026 expansion a historic turning point. With Atlanta remaining the heart of operations, each partner city reflects a strategic commitment to community engagement and cultural impact. Washington, D.C. continues BHFF’s longstanding relationship with civic and historical institutions. Miami opens new pathways to engage the Southeastern and Caribbean diaspora communities. And in a milestone collaboration, BHFF will join forces with the Oakland International Film Festival, bringing its mission of storytelling and education to the West Coast for the first time.
The 2026 programming slate promises a rich blend of film and conversation. Audiences can expect national and independent film screenings, Q&A sessions with directors and historians, youth essay and film competitions, community-driven panel discussions, educational workshops, and a series of special events hosted by celebrity guests.
Lamman Rucker, widely known for his roles in Greenleaf, Why Did I Get Married, and numerous film and stage projects, brings a long-standing dedication to public service, cultural leadership, and Black creative excellence. His role as the festival’s ambassador underscores BHFF’s commitment to highlighting stories with depth, authenticity, and intergenerational resonance.
“I am honored to serve as the Celebrity Ambassador for the Black History Film Festival,” Rucker said. “BHFF is preserving our stories, lifting up forgotten heroes, and ensuring our history is told with truth, power, and excellence.”
The final extended deadline for film submissions is December 26, 2025, and filmmakers worldwide are encouraged to apply. Visit blackhistoryfilmfestival.org.