Black history is American history, so it should be recognized every day. That said, every February, we have an opportunity to educate our students about the important events and figures that shaped this nation, while highlighting the realities we’re still facing today. To enhance these conversations, we’ve put together this list of powerful Black History Month poems for kids of all ages. We’ve also included brief biographies of these talented Black poets.
Note: Due to the nature of this topic, some Black history poems include references to slavery, violence, and death. Please review the poems before using them with your students to make sure they’re appropriate.
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Poems by Famous Black Poets
1. BLK History Month by Nikki Giovanni
“If Black History Month is not viable …”
This poem challenges us to go beyond a single month and celebrate Black history year-round. Giovanni’s words remind readers of the importance of honoring the past and building the future.
Classroom tip: Have students discuss ways they can incorporate Black history into their lives year-round and create a classroom poster featuring key takeaways from the poem.
2. Life Doesn’t Frighten Me by Maya Angelou
“Shadows on the wall …”
Angelou’s empowering poem teaches resilience in the face of fear. With vivid imagery and a bold tone, it’s an excellent reminder for students that courage can conquer anything.
Classroom tip: Pair this poem with an art project where students illustrate their own fears and then depict how they overcome them.
3. Mother to Son by Langston Hughes
“Life for me ain’t been no crystal stair.”
Through the voice of a mother, Hughes offers a powerful lesson on perseverance and grit. This heartfelt piece resonates across generations with its universal message of determination.
Classroom tip: Have students write their own “advice” poems, imagining they are passing down wisdom to someone younger.
4. February 12, 1963 by Jacqueline Woodson
“I am born on a Tuesday at University Hospital …”
Woodson captures a moment in time while reflecting on the personal and historical significance of her birth date. This narrative poem is a window into her story and the broader context of civil rights.
Classroom tip: Encourage students to write their own autobiographical poems, incorporating historical events from the year they were born.
5. Truth by Gwendolyn Brooks
“And if sun comes …”
Brooks masterfully weaves imagery and metaphor in this thoughtful exploration of resilience and hope. Her words inspire readers to embrace light even in the darkest times.
Classroom tip: Use this poem as a starting point for a discussion on what “truth” means and have students write their interpretations of truth through metaphors.
6. The Hill We Climb by Amanda Gorman
“We’ve learned that quiet isn’t always peace …”
If you watched President Joe Biden’s inauguration in January 2021, it would be hard to forget Gorman’s stirring poem. It calls for unity, hope, and action.
Classroom tip: Have students reflect on their vision for the future and write their own “hill to climb” poems about overcoming challenges.
7. A Negro Love Song by Paul Laurence Dunbar
“Seen my lady home las’ night …”
Dunbar’s rhythmic and lyrical poem paints a joyful picture of love and connection.
Classroom tip: Incorporate this poem into a lesson on rhythm and meter, then challenge students to write their own rhythmic pieces.
8. Lift Every Voice and Sing by James Weldon Johnson
“Ring with the harmonies of Liberty.”
This poem is about rejoicing for liberty and progress. Johnson writes of the importance of remembering the past as well as moving forward.
Classroom tip: Watch this video of the Boston Children’s Chorus performing the musical adaptation of this poem. Then use the poem to spark discussions about students’ personal dreams and goals, and create a class “dream board” showcasing everyone’s aspirations.
9. Coherence in Consequence by Claudia Rankine
“Imagine them in black …”
This thought-provoking piece delves into the intersections of identity, justice, and societal structures. Lorde’s powerful imagery inspires reflection on how personal experiences connect with broader social issues.
Classroom tip: Use this poem as a springboard for discussions about intersectionality. Encourage students to write reflective essays or poems exploring their own identities and societal roles.
10. Still I Rise by Maya Angelou
“You may write me down in history …”
Angelou’s iconic anthem celebrates resilience, hope, and the triumph of the human spirit. With its empowering tone and rhythmic strength, this poem inspires readers to rise above adversity and oppression.
Classroom tip: Pair this poem with a lesson on historical struggles for equality, asking students to identify parallels in current events and reflect on ways they can “rise” in their own lives.
11. Let America Be America Again by Langston Hughes
“O, let America be America again.”
Hughes challenges readers to examine the gap between the idealized American dream and its reality for marginalized communities. This poignant call for equality and justice remains strikingly relevant today.
Classroom tip: Facilitate a classroom debate about the modern relevance of the “American Dream.” Students can also write essays analyzing Hughes’ vision versus their own. You can also check out these classroom activities to teach this poem.
12. We Real Cool by Gwendolyn Brooks
“We left school. We lurk late …”
Brooks’ concise, rhythmic poem captures the voices of youth navigating life on the margins. Its unique structure invites discussion about rebellion, choices, and consequences.
Classroom tip: Engage students in a discussion about how form and rhythm enhance the poem’s message. Have them write their own short poems experimenting with similar stylistic techniques.
13. We Wear the Mask by Paul Laurence Dunbar
“We wear the mask that grins and lies …”
Dunbar’s timeless work explores themes of identity, resilience, and the emotional toll of hiding one’s true self. Its message continues to resonate across generations and cultures.
Classroom tip: Ask students to create visual art representing the metaphor of the mask. Use this as a platform to discuss emotional expression and vulnerability.
14. Primer for Blacks by Gwendolyn Brooks
“Blackness is a title, is a preoccupation, is a commitment …”
Brooks celebrates the richness and complexity of Black identity in this unapologetic and empowering piece. Her words inspire pride and a deeper understanding of cultural unity.
Classroom tip: Have students write their own “primer” poems, focusing on an aspect of their identity they feel strongly about. This can lead to rich classroom discussions about individuality and community.
Short Poems for Black History Month
15. Harlem by Langston Hughes
“What happens to a dream deferred?”
This is one of Hughes’ most well-known poems, in which he wondered if a dream deferred would “dry up, like a raisin in the sun?” These lines inspired Lorraine Hansberry’s play A Raisin in the Sun, one of the most popular plays of the 20th century.
Classroom tip: Pair this Black history poem with readings from the play to give students a more complete picture of daily life for many Black Americans during the 1950s. Encourage students to write about their own dreams and what it means to pursue them.
16. For Trayvon Martin by Reuben Jackson
“Instead of sleeping / I walk with him from the store …”
Jackson’s heartfelt tribute honors Trayvon Martin, capturing the emotions and legacy surrounding his story. This poem encourages reflection on social justice and change.
Classroom tip: Facilitate a discussion about the importance of activism and have students research modern movements for social justice, creating presentations on their findings.
17. won’t you celebrate with me by Lucille Clifton
“born in babylon / both nonwhite and woman …”
Clifton’s triumphant poem celebrates resilience and identity. Her words empower readers to embrace their unique stories and victories.
Classroom tip: Ask students to write their own celebration poems, focusing on their personal strengths and triumphs, and share them in a class “celebration circle.”
18. The Tradition by Jericho Brown
“Aster. Nasturtium. Delphinium.”
Jericho Brown’s Pulitzer Prize–winning poem reflects on themes of beauty, violence, and identity. With rich imagery and layered meanings, it invites readers to question the intersections of nature, humanity, and societal norms.
Classroom tip: Ask students to analyze the symbolic use of flowers in the poem and create their own metaphors for resilience or identity.
19. Malcolm X, February 1965 by E. Ethelbert Miller
“I will die this month.”
This poignant and reflective piece honors Malcolm X while capturing the tension and legacy of his life and death. Miller’s concise, evocative lines make a powerful statement about loss and remembrance.
Classroom tip: Use this poem as a starting point for students to write tributes to other historical figures who have inspired them.
20. Sonnet by James Weldon Johnson
“My heart be brave, and do not falter so …”
In this beautifully crafted sonnet, Johnson speaks to courage and perseverance in the face of adversity. The poem’s timeless message resonates as a call to remain steadfast even during challenging times.
Classroom tip: Explore the structure of a sonnet with students and encourage them to write their own about themes of bravery or hope.
21. Frequently Asked Questions: #7 by Camille T. Dungy
“Is it difficult to get away from it all once you’ve had a child?”
Dungy captures the complex emotions of motherhood in this poignant reflection. Her words weave personal experience with universal truths, making this an intimate and thought-provoking read.
Classroom tip: Have students discuss how personal experiences shape creative expression and encourage them to write a poem about a significant life moment.
22. alternate names for black boys by Danez Smith
“1. smoke above the burning bush.”
Danez Smith offers a searing exploration of identity, history, and resilience in this evocative and experimental piece. Each line carries weight, inviting deep reflection and discussion.
Classroom tip: Ask students to brainstorm alternate names for themselves that reflect their identities or aspirations and create a poem in a similar format.
23. Billie Holiday by E. Ethelbert Miller
“Sometimes the deaf / hear better than the blind …”
This minimalist poem captures the essence of Billie Holiday’s profound impact as an artist. Miller’s words invite readers to consider the power of emotion and interpretation in art.
Classroom tip: Use this poem to prompt a discussion about how music and poetry intersect, then have students create their own tributes to influential artists.
24. I, Too by Langston Hughes
“I, too, sing America.”
Hughes’ powerful poem asserts dignity and equality while challenging societal norms. Its hopeful tone celebrates resilience and the determination to claim a rightful place in the American narrative.
Classroom tip: Pair this poem with Whitman’s “I Hear America Singing” to discuss contrasting perspectives on American identity and inclusivity. Encourage students to write their own verses about belonging.
Black History Month Poems for Young Students
25. Knoxville, Tennessee by Nikki Giovanni
“I always like summer best …”
This poem’s gentle imagery paints a picture of simple joys and warm memories, making it relatable for students of all ages. Giovanni’s words celebrate the little things that bring happiness and comfort.
Classroom tip: Encourage students to write a poem about their favorite season, focusing on sensory details like sights, sounds, and smells.
26. Ballad of Birmingham by Dudley Randall
“Mother dear, may I go downtown …”
This haunting narrative poem recounts the tragic story of the 1963 Birmingham church bombing. Randall’s poignant words highlight both the innocence of youth and the devastating impact of violence.
Classroom tip: Pair this poem with a lesson on the Civil Rights Movement to help students connect history with personal stories.
27. Dreams by Langston Hughes
“Hold fast to dreams …”
In just eight lines, Hughes captures the importance of hope and ambition. This poem encourages readers to hold onto their dreams, as life without them is comparable to “a broken-winged bird” and “a barren field.”
Classroom tip: Have students brainstorm metaphors for dreams and create their own short poems inspired by Hughes’ timeless message.
28. The Undefeated by Kwame Alexander
“The swift and sweet ones who hurdled history and opened a world of possible …”
This powerful poem celebrates the resilience, creativity, and contributions of Black Americans throughout history. Alexander’s vivid words inspire pride and reflection, making it an excellent choice for classrooms.
Classroom tip: Use this poem to spark discussions about historical figures and have students create artwork inspired by the themes.
29. Lessons by Jacqueline Woodson
“Mama wanted us to learn to cook …”
Woodson reflects on the gendered expectations of her childhood in this touching poem. It’s a relatable and thought-provoking piece about family dynamics and life lessons.
Classroom tip: Ask students to write about a skill or lesson they’ve learned from their families and share it in class.
30. Learning To Read by Frances Ellen Watkins Harper
“Knowledge didn’t agree with slavery …”
This historical poem tells the story of enslaved people fighting to gain knowledge despite immense obstacles. Harper’s words inspire discussions about perseverance and the value of education.
Classroom tip: Introduce this poem during a lesson on Reconstruction and discuss the significance of education in shaping society.
31. History Lesson by Natasha Trethewey
“I am four in this photograph …”
Trethewey’s reflective poem ties personal memory to broader historical themes, encouraging readers to think about how history shapes identity.
Classroom tip: Have students bring in a photograph that holds personal or historical significance and write a poem inspired by it.
32. I saw Emmett Till this week at the grocery store by Eve L. Ewing
“looking over the plums, one by one …”
Ewing’s poignant poem connects past and present, imagining an encounter with Emmett Till in modern times. It invites readers to reflect on the enduring legacy of racial injustice.
Classroom tip: Use this poem to introduce lessons on Emmett Till and encourage students to write about historical figures in contemporary settings.
33. Earthrise by Amanda Gorman
“It was our world’s first glance at itself …”
This poem takes inspiration from the famous Apollo 8 photograph, urging readers to consider the fragility and beauty of our planet. Gorman’s words highlight the responsibility we all share in protecting Earth.
Classroom tip: Pair this poem with a science lesson on climate change and have students write pledges for ways they can help the environment.
More Inspiring Poems for Black History Month
34. The Slave Auction by Frances Ellen Watkins Harper
“The sale began—young girls were there …”
Harper’s unflinching depiction of a slave auction brings to life the heartbreaking realities of slavery. This emotional piece is a powerful reminder of the importance of remembering history.
Classroom tip: Use this poem to start a class discussion on empathy and understanding historical injustices.
35. Tending by Elizabeth Alexander
“In the pull-out bed with my brother …”
Alexander’s intimate poem reflects on family bonds and shared memories, capturing a moment of quiet connection. It’s a gentle reminder of the small yet significant pieces of our identities.
Classroom tip: Encourage students to write their own “snapshot poems,” capturing a meaningful moment from their lives.
36. Dirt by Kwame Dawes
“We who gave, owned nothing …”
Dawes’ evocative work examines the sacrifices of laborers and the emotional toll of displacement. His words highlight the strength and perseverance of those often overlooked.
Classroom tip: Use this poem to discuss themes of sacrifice, labor, and resilience. Invite students to explore their own family histories in creative writing assignments.
37. A Place in the Country by Toi Derricotte
“We like the houses here.”
Derricotte’s poem quietly examines the intersection of identity and belonging, prompting readers to reflect on what it means to find (or not find) a home in unfamiliar spaces.
Classroom tip: Explore the concept of “home” through student essays or poems. Discuss how our environments shape our experiences.
38. Facing It by Yusef Komunyakaa
“My black face fades …”
This deeply personal poem explores memory, trauma, and healing as Komunyakaa reflects on the Vietnam War and its aftermath. It’s a poignant piece about the scars left by conflict.
Classroom tip: Pair this poem with history lessons on the Vietnam War. Ask students to analyze how poetry can be used as a form of processing and healing.
39. To the woman I saw today who wept in her car by Bianca Lynne Spriggs
“Woman, I get it.”
Spriggs’ poem compassionately explores moments of vulnerability and shared human connection. It encourages readers to see and validate others’ emotions in everyday life.
Classroom tip: Discuss how poetry can foster empathy. Encourage students to write letters or poems to someone they’ve seen struggling.
40. Virginia Is for Lovers by Nicole Sealey
“At LaToya’s Pride picnic …”
Sealey’s vibrant work celebrates community and belonging, blending pride, joy, and the complexities of identity. It’s a heartfelt exploration of love in its many forms.
Classroom tip: Use this poem to discuss themes of inclusion and pride. Have students share or create stories about moments when they felt a strong sense of community.
41. Black Laws by Roger Reeves
“Fuss, fight, and cutting the huckley-buck …”
Reeves’ powerful poem delves into the lived experiences of Black individuals, confronting systemic oppression with unflinching honesty. His lyrical style adds depth and emotion to his storytelling.
Classroom tip: Analyze the poem’s imagery and rhythm. Encourage students to create visual art inspired by the poem’s themes.
42. Eddie Priest’s Barbershop & Notary by Kevin Young
“Closed Mondays …”
Young captures the vibrant culture of a Black barbershop in this evocative and nostalgic poem. His words paint a vivid picture of community, tradition, and storytelling.
Classroom tip: Use this poem to explore themes of community and culture. Encourage students to write about places in their neighborhoods that bring people together.
43. Coal by Audre Lorde
“Is the total black, being spoken …”
In this striking poem, Lorde powerfully celebrates Black identity, turning coal into a metaphor for strength and resilience. Her work resonates deeply, calling for recognition of beauty in every form.
Classroom tip: Pair this poem with discussions on metaphors and ask students to create their own metaphors for resilience or identity.
44. Nina’s Blues by Cornelius Eady
“Your body, hard vowels …”
Eady’s poignant poem pays homage to the transformative power of Nina Simone’s music. It explores themes of grief, art, and the enduring influence of cultural icons.
Classroom tip: Play Nina Simone’s music and invite students to write about the emotions it evokes or create poems inspired by their favorite artists.
45. Rwanda: Where Tears Have No Power by Haki R. Madhubuti
“Who has the moral high ground?”
Madhubuti’s moving poem reflects on the tragedies of the Rwandan genocide while challenging readers to consider the global impact of violence and humanity’s moral responsibilities.
Classroom tip: Use this poem as a starting point for lessons on global history and social justice. Ask students to research other historical events and write reflective essays or poems.
46. The Gospel of Barbecue by Honorée Fanonne Jeffers
“Long after it was necessary, Uncle Vess ate the leavings …”
Jeffers blends cultural history and personal memory in this rich, sensory poem. It’s a celebration of family traditions and the stories passed down through food.
Classroom tip: Ask students to write about a family tradition or meal that holds special meaning to them, exploring its connection to culture and memory.
47. In Memoriam: Martin Luther King, Jr. by June Jordan
“honey people murder mercy U.S.A.”
Jordan’s powerful poem commemorates the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., capturing the pain of loss and the enduring fight for justice.
Classroom tip: Pair this poem with a history lesson on Dr. King and the Civil Rights Movement. Encourage students to write their own tributes to leaders they admire.
48. Notes on the Peanut by June Jordan
“Hi there. My name is George Washington Carver.”
Most people think of peanut butter when they hear Carver’s name (although he didn’t actually invent that). His scientific work was much broader and incredibly significant, but all anyone seems to remember him for is the peanut. Jordan’s witty and thought-provoking poem challenges readers to see beyond stereotypes, highlighting the breadth of George Washington Carver’s contributions.
Classroom tip: Use this poem to discuss Carver’s achievements and inspire students to write about underrepresented historical figures.
49. Ego Tripping (there may be a reason why) by Nikki Giovanni
“I was born in the Congo …”
This vibrant and empowering poem celebrates the strength, beauty, and resilience of Black heritage and identity. Giovanni’s words inspire readers to embrace their power and history with pride.
Classroom tip: Have students write their own “Ego Tripping”–style poems, celebrating their unique qualities and accomplishments.
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