Black History Knowledge
Black History Knowledge — June 6
Jun
What happened on this day. These are the June 6 moments in Black history worth knowing, remembering, and passing on.
1944 — The 320th Barrage Balloon Battalion lands on D-Day
On June 6, 1944, the 320th Barrage Balloon Battalion landed during the Normandy invasion. The unit was made up of African American soldiers and helped protect Allied forces from low-flying enemy aircraft, placing Black service members inside one of the most important military operations of World War II.
1963 — Danville civil rights demonstrators face legal suppression
On June 6, 1963, Danville, Virginia’s civil rights campaign faced harsh legal resistance as local officials used old laws and intimidation tactics against protest leaders. The demonstrations challenged segregation in municipal government, employment, and public facilities.
1966 — James Meredith is shot during the March Against Fear
On June 6, 1966, James Meredith was shot near Hernando, Mississippi, during the second day of the March Against Fear. He survived, and civil rights organizations continued the march, turning an attempted act of intimidation into a larger movement for Black voter registration and political courage.
