Teaching Black History With Beer: Montclair Brewery Launches Latest Tribute

MONTCLAIR, NJ — A family-owned microbrewery and tasting room in Montclair has launched its latest tribute to Black History Month – with plans to bring back another local favorite later in February.

Montclair Brewery recently released Lumumba Smoked Ale, the newest addition to its annual Black History Month Beer Series. The beer delivers a “smooth malt profile layered with a refined smoky character,” offering a distinctive-yet-approachable drinking experience.

According to the brewery, the beer pays tribute to Patrice Lumumba, the Congolese nationalist leader widely recognized for helping end colonial rule in the Democratic Republic of Congo:

“Lumumba became the country’s first prime minister in 1960 and was regarded as one of Africa’s most promising new leaders before his assassination in 1961 amid Cold War geopolitical tensions. Historians note that Lumumba’s left-leaning political positions caused him to fall out of favor with Western powers. His legacy continues to symbolize independence, sovereignty, and African self-determination.”

“Montclair Brewery decided to honor Lumumba following renewed global attention during the recent 2025 Africa Cup of Nations tournament, when a devoted Congolese supporter gained international recognition for attending matches dressed as Lumumba and striking a frozen pose of him throughout all of the Congo games,” co-owners Leo and Denise Ford Sawadogo explained.

“The symbolic tribute sparked widespread media coverage and helped bring Lumumba’s historical significance back into global conversation,” the Sawadogos said. “The beer can label features a photo of the well-known Lumumba statue located in the capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo and a small photo of the tournament's biggest fan, Michel Nkuka Mboladinga.”

“As a former football/soccer player, coach, and lifelong fan of the tournament, seeing that powerful tribute to Lumumba during the matches was incredibly moving,” said Leo Sawadogo, who serves as head brewer.

“Lumumba represents courage, leadership, and the pursuit of independence—values that deserve continued recognition,” he continued. “Creating this beer was our way of honoring that legacy while sharing an important story with our community.”

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TRIBUTE TO LARRY DOBY

The brewery also plans to release a second tribute to Black History Month 2026 later this month: Limited Edition Doby Caramel Pale Ale.

The beer honors baseball icon and former Montclair resident, Larry Doby, who was the second Black player to break baseball's color barrier. The American pale ale features pine and citrus hop flavors – with toasty notes of caramel.

Both beers will be available in the Montclair Brewery taproom and at select distributors and retail partners while supplies last, in cans and on draught.

BREWERY EVENTS

In addition to the beer releases, Montclair Brewery is celebrating Black History Month with a full calendar of curated programming throughout the month, including live performances by musicians connected to the African diaspora and an art exhibition featuring works by Sydnei Smith Jordan on display in the taproom.

Event details and additional information can be found on the brewery’s calendar at www.montclairbrewery.com.

• See Related: Black History Served With Each Beer At This NJ Distillery
• See Related: Montclair Brewery Uses Love Of Beer As Platform For Change

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