Today in Black History: August 14th

August 14, 2025

Dr. Ernest Everett Just, Ada "Bricktop" Smith, and Earvin "Magic" Johnson share August 14 as their birth date in different years (1883, 1894, and 1959 respectively). Dr. Just was a groundbreaking biologist who faced racial barriers yet made significant contributions to cell biology research, dividing his career between Howard University, the Marine Biological Laboratory, and European institutions. Smith rose from vaudeville performer to international nightclub owner, with her Paris establishment Chez Bricktop's becoming a gathering place for celebrities and elites during the 1920s.

Who is affected

Dr. Ernest Everett Just and other Black scientists facing racial barriers in American institutions
Students and faculty at Howard University where Just worked
The scientific community studying cell biology
Patrons and performers at Ada "Bricktop" Smith's nightclubs in Paris, Mexico City, Rome, and New York
Elite cultural figures like Cole Porter, the Prince of Wales, and Josephine Baker
Basketball fans and the NBA community during Magic Johnson's career
People living with HIV who benefited from increased awareness after Johnson's announcement
Underserved communities supported by the Magic Johnson Foundation

What action is being taken

The Magic Johnson Foundation is supporting underserved communities through health education and youth programs
Johnson continues to serve as a basketball legend and dedicated philanthropist

Why it matters

Dr. Just's research on cell surfaces reshaped modern biology despite racial barriers
Ada "Bricktop" Smith created important cultural spaces that connected influential figures across society
Magic Johnson's transition from basketball star to HIV advocate helped change public perception of the disease
All three individuals overcame various challenges to make significant contributions in their respective fields
Johnson's foundation provides ongoing support to communities in need through health and youth initiatives

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint