Birthday Celebrations — June 6

Born on this day. These are the birthdays we celebrate on June 6 — the people whose lives added to the story of Black history.

Marian Wright Edelman

Born June 6, 1939

Title: Civil rights lawyer, children’s rights advocate, and founder of the Children’s Defense Fund

Marian Wright Edelman is a lawyer and civil rights advocate who founded the Children’s Defense Fund in 1973. Her work reminds us that civil rights did not only happen in marches and courtrooms; it also continued through the fight for children, education, health, and protection from poverty.

Levi Stubbs

Born June 6, 1936 — Died October 17, 2008

Title: Singer and lead vocalist of The Four Tops

Levi Stubbs was the powerful lead voice of The Four Tops, one of Motown’s most beloved vocal groups. His baritone carried drama, emotion, and gospel-rooted force into songs that became part of the soundtrack of Black music history.

Gary U.S. Bonds

Born June 6, 1939

Title: R&B and rock-and-roll singer

Gary U.S. Bonds is a rhythm-and-blues and rock-and-roll singer known for records like “New Orleans” and “Quarter to Three.” His career connects early R&B party records to the broader sound of American rock-and-roll.

Bobby Mitchell

Born June 6, 1935 — Died April 5, 2020

Title: NFL Hall of Famer, football pioneer, and sports executive

Bobby Mitchell was a football star who became the first Black player to sign with Washington’s NFL team as it finally integrated. After his playing career, he continued working in football as a front-office executive, making his impact part of both sports history and civil rights history.