Birthday Celebrations — June 23

Born on this day. These are the birthdays we celebrate on June 23 — the people whose lives added to the story of Black history.

Wilma Rudolph

Born June 23, 1940 — Died November 12, 1994

Title: Olympic sprinter and track-and-field champion

Wilma Rudolph overcame childhood illness, including polio, before becoming one of the greatest sprinters in Olympic history. At the 1960 Olympics, she became the first American woman to win three gold medals in track and field at a single Games.

Clarence Thomas

Born June 23, 1948

Title: Associate Justice of the United States Supreme Court

Clarence Thomas became the second Black justice to serve on the United States Supreme Court, following Thurgood Marshall. His life and career are historically significant, though his judicial record and public legacy remain deeply debated in American law and politics.

LaDainian Tomlinson

Born June 23, 1979

Title: Pro Football Hall of Fame running back

LaDainian Tomlinson was one of the most productive and versatile running backs in NFL history. He became league MVP, set major scoring records, and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2017.