Birthday Celebrations — August 2

Born on this day. These are the birthdays we celebrate on August 2 — the people whose lives added to the story of Black history.

James Baldwin

Full name: James Arthur Baldwin

Born August 2, 1924 — died December 1, 1987

Writer, essayist, novelist, playwright, poet, and civil rights voice.

Baldwin became one of America’s most powerful writers on race, identity, sexuality, religion, and belonging. Through works including Go Tell It on the Mountain, Notes of a Native Son, and The Fire Next Time, he confronted the nation with language that was personal, fearless, and impossible to ignore.

Jabari Banks

Born August 2, 1998

Actor, singer, songwriter, and modern television performer.

Banks gained national attention portraying Will in Bel-Air, the dramatic reimagining of The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air. A graduate of the University of the Arts, he brought a new generation’s voice to a familiar Black television legacy while also developing his own work in music and performance.

Doris Coley

Full name: Doris Coley Kenner-Jackson

Born August 2, 1941 — died February 4, 2000

Singer, songwriter, founding member, and lead vocalist of the Shirelles.

Coley helped the Shirelles become one of the first Black girl groups to achieve major mainstream success. Her lead vocals on recordings including “Dedicated to the One I Love” helped establish the emotional style and close harmony that influenced generations of soul, pop, and R&B vocal groups.

Wear the history: James Baldwin — from the Black Knowledge Wear collection.