Honoring Black American Poets

As Olivia, daughter of Board member Sandis, reminded us, “Black History Month is a month dedicated to honor people of color and our nation’s way of showing respect and recognition for their hard work and sacrifice.” This year we celebrated Black American poets on Instagram and Facebook, through members of our community who shared poetry reflective of the rich and evocative Black American experience. 

In a moving video recording, Doyinsade (AHS 2014 ) read “To Black Women” by Gwendolyn Brooks. Brooks’ message to Black women inspires powerful and precise tenacity. Among many distinctions, Brooks was the first Black author to win the Pulitzer Prize. 

Board members, alumni and other ABC community members read poems by Black poets throughout the month. Lauren Kosky-Stamm, one of our host parents, read “A Small Needful Fact” by Ross Gay. Gay wrote the poem to put a spotlight on the beauty of Eric Garner’s life.

At A Better Chance of Andover, we believe that honoring the achievements of Black Americans should be championed 365 days a year, not just the 28 days of February. With that in mind, we will continue these efforts and honor this amazing poetry throughout the year.

In case you missed any, you can catch them all on our website. Check out Our Speaker Series page.