Black History Knowledge — May 23

What happened on this day. These are the May 23 moments in Black history worth knowing, remembering, and passing on.

May 23, 1900 — Sgt. William H. Carney is issued the Medal of Honor

Category: Civil War / Medal of Honor / Black Military Firsts

Sgt. William Harvey Carney received the Medal of Honor for his actions with the 54th Massachusetts Infantry during the assault on Fort Wagner.

Why it matters: Carney is often remembered as the first African American whose battlefield action earned the Medal of Honor, though the medal was awarded decades later. His story connects Black military courage, delayed recognition, and the legacy of the 54th Massachusetts.

May 23, 1921 — Shuffle Along opens on Broadway

Category: Theater / Broadway / Black Musical Theater / Cultural Breakthrough

Shuffle Along opened on Broadway and became one of the first major African American hit musicals.

Why it matters: This is one of the strongest May 23 entries. Shuffle Along helped change Broadway, Black performance, syncopated music, dance, and the visibility of Black talent on the national stage.

May 23, 1963 — James Baldwin meets with Attorney General Robert F. Kennedy

Category: Civil Rights / Black Writers / Federal Power / Public Witness

James Baldwin met with Attorney General Robert F. Kennedy, bringing Black artists, activists, and cultural figures into direct conversation with federal power.

Why it matters: This is a strong Knowledge entry because it shows Black writers and artists acting as political witnesses. Baldwin was not only writing about race; he was forcing the federal government to hear the emotional and moral reality of Black life in America.

Wear the history: James Baldwin — from the Black Knowledge Wear collection.