CalEvents:Jun/Jun 26
From Sankofapedia
Notable events for Jun 26
Date
Event
Significance
June 26, 1909
Birth of Dr. Percy Lavon Julian, pioneering African-American chemist
On this day, Dr. Percy Lavon Julian, a groundbreaking African-American chemist who made significant contributions to the development of synthetic steroids and cortisone, was born. His scientific achievements were instrumental in opening doors for African Americans in the field of science and technology.
June 26, 1945
United Nations Charter signed, Ethiopia among the founding members
On this day, the United Nations Charter was signed in San Francisco, officially establishing the United Nations. Ethiopia, one of the few independent African nations at the time, was a founding member, signifying Africa's early involvement in global diplomacy and international relations.
June 26, 1959
Madagascar gains independence from France
On this day, Madagascar officially gained independence from French colonial rule, marking another milestone in Africa’s decolonization movement. Independence allowed Madagascar to chart its own political and economic path as a sovereign nation in the post-colonial era.
June 26, 1963
President John F. Kennedy delivers "Ich bin ein Berliner" speech
On this day, U.S. President John F. Kennedy delivered his famous “Ich bin ein Berliner” speech in West Berlin. While not directly related to African-American or Pan-African history, Kennedy’s commitment to freedom and democracy was significant in the context of Cold War politics, which affected many African nations during decolonization.
June 26, 1964
Anti-apartheid activists launch the "South Africa Freedom Day" campaign
On this day, anti-apartheid activists around the world launched "South Africa Freedom Day" to raise awareness of the brutal apartheid regime in South Africa. The campaign marked a global movement in support of South African liberation efforts, and June 26 became an important day for anti-apartheid demonstrations.
June 26, 1977
Djibouti becomes a member of the United Nations
On this day, Djibouti was admitted as a member of the United Nations after gaining independence from France earlier that year. Djibouti's membership in the UN signified its full recognition as an independent nation and its participation in international diplomacy.
June 26, 2013
Supreme Court of the United States strikes down the Defense of Marriage Act
On this day, the U.S. Supreme Court struck down the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA), a landmark decision that allowed same-sex couples, including African Americans, to receive federal marriage benefits. The ruling had wide-reaching social implications for the LGBTQ+ community, which included many African Americans.