On June 9, 1980, civil rights advocates began a campaign to honor Paul Robeson—actor, singer, and activist—with a U.S. postage stamp. Robeson, a larger-than-life figure whose activism made him a target during the McCarthy era, had died in 1976. Supporters argued he deserved formal recognition for using his voice and fame to challenge global racism and champion workers’ rights. The proposal marked an attempt to restore Robeson’s reputation after decades of political blacklisting. The effort succeeded in 2004, but June 9 represents the beginning of his slow re-emergence into mainstream American honor.
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