PBW Daily – July 7 - Powerful Black Women

PBW Daily – July 7

Celebrating Women of Impact, One Day at a Time

PBW Daily is a series presented by Powerful Black Women, celebrating the lives, legacies, and ongoing impact of Black women in culture, society, and community. Join us daily as we celebrate and uplift — one day at a time.

CELEBRATING LISA LESLIE

Celebrated today, July 7, Lisa Leslie made history as the first player to dunk in a WNBA game and is recognized as one of the league’s most influential athletes. A four-time Olympic gold medalist, she continues to contribute as a sports analyst and coach. She once said, “When I leave the game, I want to leave something behind.”
Happy 53rd Birthday, Lisa Leslie.

CELEBRATING CREE SUMMER

Marking her birthday on July 7, Cree Summer is best known for her role as Freddie on A Different World and her voice work in over 300 animated productions. She once described her artistry as, “I do the work that feeds my soul.” Happy 56th Birthday, Cree Summer.

CELEBRATING DEBRA KILLINGS

Debra Killings, born July 7, 1964, is the voice behind some of the most iconic R&B records of the ’90s and 2000s, contributing to the success of TLC, OutKast, and Monica. Her gospel album Surrender showcases her spiritual artistry and solo voice. Happy 61st Birthday, Debra Killings.

CELEBRATING THE HARRIS SEXTUPLETS

On July 7, 2002, Diamond Harris-Canty and Chris Harris became parents to the first known set of African-American sextuplets. Their journey into parenthood became a powerful story of resilience and love. Fun fact: The babies were named Kiera, Kaylynne, Kaleb, Kobe, Kieran, and Kyle. Happy 23rd Birthday to the Harris Sextuplets.

CELEBRATING SANDRA DOUGLASS MORGAN

It was on July 7, 2022, that Sandra Douglass Morgan was named president of the Las Vegas Raiders, becoming the first Black and Asian woman to lead an NFL team. She is also a former city attorney and gaming regulator with a sharp eye for strategic change.

CELEBRATING ROZ RYAN

Born July 7, 1951, Roz Ryan has graced Broadway, television, and animation for over four decades. Beloved for her role on Amen and her voice as Thalia, the Muse of Comedy in Disney’s Hercules, she brings humor, heart, and range to every performance. Happy 74th Birthday, Roz Ryan.

CELEBRATING ALYSHA CLARK

Alysha Clark, born on July 7, 1987, is known for her defensive prowess and championship wins in the WNBA. She’s also played overseas, earning MVP honors and building a reputation as a reliable leader on and off the court.
Happy 38th Birthday, Alysha Clark.

CELEBRATING TASHA COBBS LEONARD

Tasha Cobbs Leonard was born on July 7, 1981. With her breakout EP Grace, she introduced the world to the power of “Break Every Chain,” a song that has since become a modern gospel anthem. Her ministry has touched lives around the globe. Happy 44th Birthday, Tasha Cobbs Leonard.

CELEBRATING KRISTI CASTLIN

Olympic medalist Kristi Castlin was born on July 7, 1988. She secured her place in sports history by helping lead the U.S. to a sweep in the 100m hurdles at the 2016 Olympics. She has spoken often about the importance of visibility and perseverance. Happy 37th Birthday, Kristi Castlin.

CELEBRATING KANEESHA CARTER

Kaneesha Carter, born on July 7, 1965, is best remembered for her moving portrayal in Lean on Me and her performances on The Cosby Show and A Different World. As a teen actress, she brought rawness and honesty to roles that mattered.
Happy 60th Birthday, Kaneesha Carter.

CELEBRATING NIA AKINS

Nia Akins, born July 7, 1998, became the U.S. national champion in the 800 meters both indoors and outdoors in 2023. She holds a degree in nursing from the University of Pennsylvania and is known for balancing athletics with academics.
Happy 27th Birthday, Nia Akins.

REMEMBERING HELENE JOHNSON

Helene Johnson, born on July 7, 1906, was a Harlem Renaissance poet whose literary work captured the vibrancy and complexity of her era. One of her most acclaimed poems, “Bottled,” explored themes of containment and creative expression.

REMEMBERING MARGARET WALKER

Born July 7, 1915, Margaret Walker was a celebrated author and poet. Her collection For My People remains a cornerstone of 20th-century Black literature and is essential reading in classrooms today.

“Let a new earth rise. Let another world be born.” — Margaret Walker