Black Poetry Day

Black Poetry Day: Celebrating African American Poetic Voices

Black Poetry Day is an annual observance that honors and celebrates the contributions of African American poets to literature and culture. This special day recognizes the rich history and ongoing legacy of Black poetry in the United States.

Quick Facts

When is it?: October 17
Tagged as: Literary holiday, Cultural celebration
What’s the hashtag?: #BlackPoetryDay
When was it founded?: 1985
Who founded it?: Stanley A. Ransom Jr.

History of Black Poetry Day

Black Poetry Day was established in 1985 to commemorate the birth of Jupiter Hammon, the first published African American poet in the United States. Hammon was born on October 17, 1711, in Long Island, New York. The day serves as a tribute to his pioneering work and the countless Black poets who have followed in his footsteps, enriching American literature with their unique perspectives and experiences.

Timeline

1711: Jupiter Hammon is born on October 17
1760: Hammon’s first poem, “An Evening Thought,” is published
1773: Phillis Wheatley publishes her first volume of poetry
1970: Stanley A. Ransom Jr. proposes October 17 as a day to celebrate Black culture and literature
1985: Black Poetry Day is officially established

Upcoming Dates

Year	Month and Date	Day
2025	October 17	Friday
2026	October 17	Saturday
2027	October 17	Sunday
2028	October 17	Tuesday
2029	October 17	Wednesday
2030	October 17	Thursday

How Black Poetry Day is Observed

Black Poetry Day is celebrated through various events and activities across the United States. Libraries, schools, and cultural institutions often organize poetry readings, workshops, and performances featuring works by Black poets. Many people take this opportunity to explore and share African American poetry on social media, in classrooms, and within their communities.

How to Celebrate Black Poetry Day

Read and Share Black Poetry

Explore the works of renowned Black poets such as Langston Hughes, Maya Angelou, or Amanda Gorman. Share your favorite poems on social media or with friends and family.

Attend or Organize Poetry Events

Look for local poetry readings or slam events featuring Black poets. If none are available, consider organizing one at a local library, bookstore, or community center.

Support Black-Owned Bookstores

Purchase poetry collections from Black-owned bookstores to support both the poets and local businesses within the African American community.

Fun Facts About Black Poetry

Oregon is the only state to officially recognize Black Poetry Day as a state holiday.
The Harlem Renaissance of the 1920s and 1930s was a pivotal period for Black poetry in America.
Many contemporary Black poets also excel in other art forms, such as music and visual arts.
Spoken word poetry has roots in African oral traditions and has gained popularity in recent decades.
The first known poem by an African American was “Bars Fight” by Lucy Terry, written in 1746 but not published until 1855.

Quiz

Who is considered the first published African American poet?
On what date is Black Poetry Day celebrated?
Which state officially recognizes Black Poetry Day as a holiday?
What was the name of Jupiter Hammon’s first published poem?
In what year was Black Poetry Day established?

(Answers: 1. Jupiter Hammon, 2. October 17, 3. Oregon, 4. “An Evening Thought”, 5. 1985)

FAQs

What is the significance of October 17 for Black Poetry Day?
October 17 marks the birthday of Jupiter Hammon, the first published African American poet in the United States.

How can schools participate in Black Poetry Day?
Schools can organize poetry readings, invite local Black poets for workshops, or incorporate Black poetry into their curriculum.

Are there any major awards for Black poets?
Yes, there are several, including the Hurston/Wright Legacy Award for Poetry and the Kingsley Tufts Poetry Award, which have been won by many Black poets.

Can non-Black individuals participate in Black Poetry Day celebrations?
Absolutely! Black Poetry Day is an opportunity for everyone to appreciate and celebrate the contributions of Black poets to literature and culture.

How has Black poetry influenced American literature as a whole?
Black poetry has significantly shaped American literature by introducing unique perspectives, rhythms, and themes that reflect the African American experience and challenge societal norms.

Importance of Black Poetry Day

Black Poetry Day holds immense significance in recognizing and celebrating the contributions of African American poets to literature and culture. It serves as a platform to amplify Black voices, highlighting their unique experiences, struggles, and triumphs through the power of verse. This day encourages exploration of the rich tapestry of Black poetry, from historical works that documented the African American journey to contemporary pieces that continue to push boundaries and inspire change. By dedicating a day to Black poetry, we acknowledge its profound impact on American literature and its role in shaping social discourse. It also provides an opportunity for education, fostering greater understanding and appreciation of African American culture and history through the lens of poetic expression.