CalEvents:Jun/Jun 20
From Sankofapedia
Notable events for Jun 20
Date
Event
Significance
June 20, 1899
Birth of African-American actor and singer Hazel Scott
On this day, Hazel Scott, an African-American jazz and classical pianist and singer, was born. Scott became an important figure in entertainment and civil rights, advocating for racial equality in Hollywood and refusing to perform in segregated venues.
June 20, 1960
Mali and Senegal form the Mali Federation
On this day, the West African nations of Mali and Senegal formed the Mali Federation as a step toward uniting French West Africa in a post-colonial era. Although the federation was short-lived, it represented an early attempt at Pan-African unity and cooperation.
June 20, 1977
First World Black and African Festival of Arts and Culture (FESTAC) held in Nigeria
On this day, the second FESTAC (the First World Black and African Festival of Arts and Culture) was hosted in Lagos, Nigeria, bringing together artists, musicians, and intellectuals from across Africa and the diaspora. The event celebrated African cultural heritage and promoted Pan-African solidarity.
June 20, 1990
Nelson Mandela calls for the end of armed struggle in South Africa
On this day, Nelson Mandela, after his release from prison, called for the end of the armed struggle against the apartheid regime in South Africa. This marked a pivotal moment in the transition to peace and negotiations toward the end of apartheid.
June 20, 1991
Rodney King police beating trial begins in the U.S.
On this day, the trial of the Los Angeles police officers involved in the beating of African-American motorist Rodney King began. The case garnered widespread attention and sparked discussions about police brutality and systemic racism in the U.S., culminating in the Los Angeles riots after the officers were acquitted.
June 20, 2003
Wangari Maathai wins the Sophie Prize for environmental activism
On this day, Kenyan environmentalist Wangari Maathai, founder of the Green Belt Movement, was awarded the Sophie Prize for her environmental activism and advocacy for women’s rights. Maathai’s efforts were instrumental in promoting sustainable development and environmental conservation in Africa.
June 20, 2017
South African Parliament debates land reform policies
On this day, the South African Parliament held significant debates over land reform policies, addressing the legacy of apartheid-era land dispossession. These discussions were part of a broader national effort to redress historical injustices and return land to the Black majority population.