Birthday Celebrations — July 16

Born on this day. These are the birthdays we celebrate on July 16 — the people whose lives added to the story of Black history.

Ida B. Wells

Full name: Ida Bell Wells-Barnett

Born July 16, 1862 — died March 25, 1931

Investigative journalist, anti-lynching activist, suffragist, educator, and civil rights pioneer.

Wells was born enslaved in Holly Springs, Mississippi, and became one of the fiercest truth-tellers in American history. Through journalism, organizing, and public speaking, she exposed lynching, challenged racial terror, and fought for Black civil rights and women’s voting rights.

Barry Sanders

Born July 16, 1968

NFL running back, Heisman Trophy winner, Detroit Lions legend, and Pro Football Hall of Famer.

Sanders became one of football’s most electrifying runners, known for balance, vision, humility, and impossible change of direction. He spent his entire NFL career with the Detroit Lions and was inducted into both the College Football Hall of Fame and the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

Daryl “Chill” Mitchell

Born July 16, 1965

Actor, producer, former rapper, disability advocate, and television performer.

Mitchell was born in The Bronx and built a long career across film and television, including Galaxy Quest, 10 Things I Hate About You, and NCIS: New Orleans. After a motorcycle accident left him paralyzed, he continued acting and became an important example of visibility and persistence for disabled performers.

Wear the history: Ida B. Wells — from the Black Knowledge Wear collection.