Birthday Celebrations — May 9

Born on this day. These are the birthdays we celebrate on May 9 — the people whose lives added to the story of Black history.

Rudolph Fisher

Born May 9, 1897 — Died December 26, 1934

Field: Harlem Renaissance / Medicine / Literature / Radiology

Rudolph Fisher was a physician, radiologist, novelist, short-story writer, musician, and Harlem Renaissance figure.

Why it matters: Fisher gives May 9 a rare combination of science and literature. He shows how Black Renaissance figures often moved across disciplines — medicine, music, writing, and cultural thought.

Sonja Sohn

Born May 9, 1964

Field: Acting / Film / Television / Activism / Documentary

Sonja Sohn is an actress, filmmaker, poet, and activist known for The Wire, Slam, and documentary work connected to Baltimore activism.

Why it matters: Sohn is a modern cultural entry connecting performance, community work, and documentary storytelling.