October 17

Black Poetry Day

Celebrate Black Poetry Day with amazing works of art from black poets! Read, write and share to recognize the beauty of their words.

Yearly Date

October 17

Observed in

United States

Introduction

Celebrate and honor the African American literary tradition on Black Poetry Day, October 17! This day is dedicated to not only honoring the works of prominent black poets, but also preserving and celebrating African American literature. Whether you're a poet yourself or simply love reading poetry, this is an excellent opportunity to delve into some amazing works by black authors.

Black Poetry Day Timeline

1773

First African American Poet Published

Phillis Wheatley became the first African American to publish a book of poetry, "Poems on Various Subjects Religious and Moral."

1920s

Harlem Renaissance

The Harlem Renaissance, an intellectual and cultural revival, spawns a new generation of Black poets, including Langston Hughes and Countee Cullen.

1945

Gwendolyn Brooks's First Collection

Gwendolyn Brooks's first collection of poems, "A Street in Bronzeville," is published, marking the beginning of her acclaimed career.

1950

First Black Pulitzer Prize Winner

Gwendolyn Brooks becomes the first African American to win the Pulitzer Prize for her second book of poems, "Annie Allen."

1976

Creation of Black Poetry Day

The celebration of Black Poetry Day was established, honoring Jupiter Hammon, an enslaved African American who became one of the earliest published black poets in America.

2021

Amanda Gorman's Inauguration Poem

Amanda Gorman becomes the youngest inaugural poet in U.S. history, reading her poem "The Hill We Climb" at Joe Biden's presidential inauguration.

How to Celebrate Black Poetry Day

1 Read a black poet's work

Whether it is Maya Angelou, Langston Hughes, or Nikki Giovanni, take the time to appreciate their works and learn more about their lives.

2 Write your own poetry

Get your pen and paper and create your own poem! Look up some of the greats for inspiration.

3 Attend a live poetry reading

Find out if there are any local events taking place in your area to celebrate Black Poetry Day or just take a walk around town and see what you can find.

4 Share your favorite poem on social media

Spread the word about Black Poetry Day by sharing one of your favorite poems with your friends and family on social media.

5 Organize a discussion group

Gather some friends together to talk about the impact of black poets on literature and society as a whole.

Why We Love Black Poetry Day

Black Poetry acknowledges the legacy of Black experiences

In a world that often overlooks or minimizes the struggles and triumphs of African American history, black poetry serves as a powerful reminder that black voices, stories and perspectives have always been — and always will be — a vital part of our collective narrative.

Black Poetry celebrates amazing Black poets

From Langston Hughes to Maya Angelou to particularly new writers like Imani Cezanne and Mahogany Browne, black poetry is important because it allows us to recognize and celebrate the incredible accomplishments of black writers. On National Black Poetry Day, we get to recognize these amazing artists and honor their work.

Black Poetry helps strengthen community

In addition to providing joyous moments of self reflection, black poetry has the power to create meaningful connections between people. By lifting up the stories of formerly marginalized voices, black poets can help unite communities by reminding us all of our shared experiences.