Black history is an integral part of American history and deserves recognition every day. However, every February, we have a unique opportunity to engage our students in learning about the significant events and figures that have shaped this nation, while also addressing the ongoing realities we face today. To facilitate these important discussions, we have compiled a list of impactful Black History Month poems suitable for children of all ages, accompanied by brief biographies of the talented poets behind them.
Note: Some poems related to Black history may include references to slavery, violence, and death. We advise reviewing these poems beforehand to ensure they are appropriate for your students.
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Poems by Famous Black Poets
1. BLK History Month by Nikki Giovanni
âIf Black History Month is not viable âŠâ
This poem encourages us to celebrate Black history beyond a single month, emphasizing the significance of honoring the past while shaping the future.
Classroom tip: Have students brainstorm ways to incorporate Black history into their daily lives and create a classroom poster highlighting key insights from the poem.
2. Life Doesnât Frighten Me by Maya Angelou
âShadows on the wall âŠâ
Angelouâs empowering poem teaches resilience in the face of fear. Its vivid imagery serves as a reminder that courage can conquer all.
Classroom tip: Pair this poem with an art project where students illustrate their fears and visualize how they would overcome them.
3. Mother to Son by Langston Hughes
âLife for me ainât been no crystal stair.â
Through a motherâs voice, Hughes imparts a powerful lesson on perseverance. This poignant piece resonates across generations, delivering a universal message of determination.
Classroom tip: Have students write their own âadviceâ poems, imagining they are imparting wisdom to a younger person.
4. February 12, 1963 by Jacqueline Woodson
âI am born on a Tuesday at University Hospital âŠâ
Woodson reflects on her birth dateâs personal and historical significance, creating a narrative poem that provides insight into her story and the broader civil rights context.
Classroom tip: Prompt students to write their own autobiographical poems, incorporating significant historical events from the year they were born.
5. Truth by Gwendolyn Brooks
âAnd if sun comes âŠâ
Brooks expertly employs imagery and metaphor to explore themes of resilience and hope. Her inspiring words encourage readers to embrace light even in the darkest times.
Classroom tip: Initiate a discussion on the concept of âtruthâ and invite students to write their interpretations of truth through metaphors.
6. The Hill We Climb by Amanda Gorman
âWeâve learned that quiet isnât always peace âŠâ
Gormanâs stirring poem from President Bidenâs inauguration calls for unity, hope, and action.
Classroom tip: Encourage students to reflect on their vision for the future and write their own âhill to climbâ poems about overcoming challenges.
7. A Negro Love Song by Paul Laurence Dunbar
âSeen my lady home lasâ night âŠâ
Dunbarâs rhythmic and lyrical poem creates a joyful depiction of love and connection.
Classroom tip: Integrate this poem into a lesson on rhythm and meter, then challenge students to compose their own rhythmic pieces.
8. Lift Every Voice and Sing by James Weldon Johnson
âRing with the harmonies of Liberty.â
Johnsonâs poem rejoices in liberty and progress, emphasizing the importance of remembering the past while looking forward.
Classroom tip: Watch a video of the Boston Childrenâs Chorus performing this poemâs musical adaptation. Use it to spark discussions about studentsâ personal dreams and goals, then create a class âdream boardâ showcasing everyoneâs aspirations.
9. Coherence in Consequence by Claudia Rankine
âImagine them in black âŠâ
This thought-provoking piece explores identity, justice, and societal structures. Rankineâs evocative imagery encourages reflection on personal experiences and their connection to broader social issues.
Classroom tip: Use this poem as a launchpad 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
âYou may write me down in history âŠâ
Angelouâs iconic anthem celebrates resilience, hope, and the triumph of the human spirit, inspiring readers to rise above adversity and oppression.
Classroom tip: Pair this poem with a lesson on historical struggles for equality, prompting students to identify parallels in current events and reflect on ways they can âriseâ in their own lives.
11. Let America Be America Again by Langston Hughes
âO, let America be America again.â
Hughes urges readers to examine the divide between the idealized American dream and the reality faced by marginalized communities. This poignant call for equality and justice remains relevant today.
Classroom tip: Facilitate a classroom debate about the modern relevance of the âAmerican Dream.â Have students write essays analyzing Hughesâ vision versus their own. Check out these classroom activities for teaching this poem.
12. We Real Cool by Gwendolyn Brooks
âWe real cool. We / Left school. We / Lurk late âŠâ
Brooksâ concise, rhythmic poem captures the voices of youth living on the margins, prompting discussions about rebellion, choices, and their consequences.
Classroom tip: Engage students in a discussion on how form and rhythm enhance the poemâs message. Have them write their own short poems experimenting with similar stylistic techniques.
13. We Wear the Mask by Paul Laurence Dunbar
âWe wear the mask that grins and lies âŠâ
Dunbarâs timeless work delves into themes of identity, resilience, and the emotional toll of concealing oneâs true self. Its message resonates across generations and cultures.
Classroom tip: Encourage 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
âBlackness is a title, is a preoccupation, is a commitment âŠâ
Brooks celebrates the richness and complexity of Black identity in this unapologetic piece, inspiring pride and a deeper understanding of cultural unity.
Classroom tip: Have students write their own âprimerâ poems focusing on an aspect of their identity they deeply resonate with. This can foster rich classroom discussions about individuality and community.
Short Poems for Black History Month
15. Harlem by Langston Hughes
âWhat happens to a dream deferred?â
This is one of Hughesâ most well-known poems, questioning if a deferred dream would âdry up, like a raisin in the sun.â These lines inspired Lorraine Hansberryâs play A Raisin in the Sun.
Classroom tip: Pair this poem with readings from the play to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the daily life for many Black Americans in the 1950s. Encourage them to write about their own dreams and what pursuing them means.
16. For Trayvon Martin by Reuben Jackson
âInstead of sleeping / I walk with him from the store âŠâ
Jacksonâs heartfelt tribute honors Trayvon Martin, encapsulating the emotions and legacy surrounding his story while encouraging reflection on social justice and change.
Classroom tip: Facilitate a discussion on the importance of activism, prompting students to research modern movements for social justice, and create presentations based on their findings.
17. wonât you celebrate with me by Lucille Clifton
âborn in babylon / both nonwhite and woman âŠâ
Cliftonâs triumphant poem celebrates resilience and identity, empowering readers to embrace their unique stories and victories.
Classroom tip: Invite students to write their own celebration poems, focusing on their personal strengths and triumphs, and share them in a class âcelebration circle.â
18. The Undefeated by Kwame Alexander
âThe swift and sweet ones who hurdled history and opened a world of possible âŠâ
This powerful poem celebrates the resilience, creativity, and contributions of Black Americans throughout history. Alexanderâs vivid words inspire pride and reflection, making it an excellent choice for classroom discussions.
Classroom tip: Use this poem to prompt discussions about historical figures, and encourage students to create artwork inspired by the themes.
19. Lessons by Jacqueline Woodson
âMama wanted us to learn to cook âŠâ
Woodson reflects on the gendered expectations of her childhood in this touching poem. Itâs a relatable and thought-provoking piece about family dynamics and life lessons.
Classroom tip: Prompt students to write about a skill or lesson theyâve learned from their families and share it in class.
20. Learning To Read by Frances Ellen Watkins Harper
âKnowledge didnât agree with slavery âŠâ
This historical poem uses powerful imagery to reveal how enslaved individuals fought to gain knowledge, showcasing perseverance and the value of education.
Classroom tip: Introduce this poem during a lesson on Reconstruction. Afterward, lead a discussion on the significance of education in shaping society.
21. History Lesson by Natasha Trethewey
âI am four in this photograph âŠâ
Tretheweyâs reflective poem connects personal memory to broader historical themes, encouraging readers to consider how history shapes identity.
Classroom tip: Ask students to bring in a photograph of personal or historical significance and write a poem inspired by it.
22. I saw Emmett Till this week at the grocery store by Eve L. Ewing
âlooking over the plums, one by one âŠâ
Ewingâs poignant poem connects past and present, imagining an encounter with Emmett Till in contemporary settings. It invites reflection on the lasting legacy of racial injustice.
Classroom tip: Use this poem to introduce lessons on Emmett Till, then invite students to write about historical figures in modern contexts.
23. Earthrise by Amanda Gorman
âIt was our worldâs first glance at itself âŠâ
Inspired by the iconic Apollo 8 photograph, Gormanâs poem urges readers to reflect on our planetâs fragility and beauty, emphasizing our shared responsibility to protect it.
Classroom tip: Pair this poem with a science lesson on climate change, prompting students to write pledges on how they can contribute to environmental sustainability.
More Inspiring Poems for Black History Month
34. The Slave Auction by Frances Ellen Watkins Harper
âThe sale beganâyoung girls were there âŠâ
Harperâs vivid depiction of a slave auction reveals the heartbreaking realities of slavery, serving as a poignant reminder of the importance of remembering history.
Classroom tip: Use this poem to initiate a class discussion about empathy and understanding historical injustices.
35. Ballad of Birmingham by Dudley Randall
âMother dear, may I go downtown âŠâ
This haunting narrative poem recounts the tragic story of the 1963 Birmingham church bombing, highlighting both the innocence of youth and the devastating impact of violence.
Classroom tip: Pair this poem with a lesson on the Civil Rights Movement, helping students connect history with personal narratives.
36. Tending by Elizabeth Alexander
âIn the pull-out bed with my brother âŠâ
Alexanderâs intimate poem captures family bonds and shared memories, offering a gentle reminder of the small yet significant elements of our identities.
Classroom tip: Encourage students to write their own âsnapshot poemsâ that capture meaningful moments from their lives.
37. A Place in the Country by Toi Derricotte
âWe like the houses here.â
Derricotteâs poem 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 âhomeâ through student essays or poems, discussing how our environments shape our experiences.
38. Facing It by Yusef Komunyakaa
âMy black face fades âŠâ
This deeply personal poem explores memory, trauma, and healing as Komunyakaa reflects on the Vietnam War and its aftermath, addressing the scars left by conflict.
Classroom tip: Pair this poem with history lessons on the Vietnam War, asking students to analyze how poetry can serve as a medium for processing and healing.
39. Calling Dreams by Georgia Douglas Johnson
âThe right to make my dreams come true / I ask, nay I demand of lifeââ
This compact anthem of determination conveys an empowering message for children in just a few lines.
Classroom tip: Have students write a four-to-six-line âdream claimâ poem declaring one goal and the first step toward achieving it.
40. To the woman I saw today who wept in her car by Bianca Lynne Spriggs
âWoman, I get it.â
Spriggsâ poem explores moments of vulnerability and shared human connection, encouraging readers to see and validate the emotions of others in everyday life.
Classroom tip: Discuss how poetry can cultivate empathy, inviting students to write letters or poems to someone theyâve observed struggling.
41. Virginia Is for Lovers by Nicole Sealey
âAt LaToyaâs Pride picnic âŠâ
Sealeyâs vibrant work celebrates community and belonging, blending pride, joy, and the complexities of identity in a heartfelt exploration of love.
Classroom tip: Use this poem to discuss themes of inclusion and pride, encouraging students to share or create stories about moments when they felt a strong sense of community.
42. Black Laws by Roger Reeves
âFuss, fight, and cutting the huckley-buck âŠâ
Reevesâ powerful poem delves into the lived experiences of Black individuals, addressing systemic oppression with unflinching honesty and lyrical depth.
Classroom tip: Analyze the poemâs imagery and rhythm, encouraging students to create visual art inspired by the poemâs themes.
43. Eddie Priestâs Barbershop & Notary by Kevin Young
âClosed Mondays âŠâ
Young captures the vibrant culture of a Black barbershop in this evocative poem, painting a picture of community, tradition, and storytelling.
Classroom tip: Use this poem to explore themes of community and culture, prompting students to write about places in their neighborhoods that bring people together.
44. Coal by Audre Lorde
âIs the total black, being spoken âŠâ
In this striking poem, Lorde celebrates Black identity, using coal as 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 symbols for resilience or identity.
45. Ninaâs Blues by Cornelius Eady
âYour body, hard vowels / In a soft dress, is still âŠâ
Eadyâs poignant poem pays homage to the transformative power of Nina Simoneâs music, exploring themes of grief, art, and the lasting influence of cultural icons.
Classroom tip: Play Nina Simoneâs music and invite students to write about the emotions it evokes or create poems inspired by their favorite artists.
46. Rwanda: Where Tears Have No Power by Haki R. Madhubuti
âWho has the moral high ground?â
Madhubutiâs moving poem reflects on the tragedies of the Rwandan genocide, challenging readers to consider the global impact of violence and humanityâs moral responsibilities.
Classroom tip: Use this poem as a jumping-off point for lessons on global history and social justice, prompting students to research other historical events and write reflective essays or poems.
47. Notes on the Peanut by June Jordan
âHi there. My name is George Washington Carver.â
Although many think of peanut butter when they hear Carverâs name, Jordanâs witty poem challenges readers to see beyond stereotypes, highlighting the breadth of his contributions.
Classroom tip: Use this poem to discuss Carverâs achievements, inspiring students to write about underrepresented historical figures.
48. The Negro Speaks of Rivers by Langston Hughes
âMy soul has grown deep like the rivers.â
Written at just 17, this poem connects the African diaspora to ancient history through the metaphor of rivers, celebrating heritage and the continuity of Black identity.
Classroom tip: Pair this poem with a geography or history lesson on the Nile, Congo, and Mississippi Rivers, encouraging students to create their own âriver of heritageâ representing their personal or cultural histories.
49. Sympathy by Paul Laurence Dunbar
âI know why the caged bird sings âŠâ
This moving poem expresses the pain of oppression and the yearning for freedom, using the image of a caged bird that continues to sing despite its captivity. Its emotional clarity has inspired generations, including Maya Angelou.
Classroom tip: Compare Dunbarâs metaphor of the caged bird with Angelouâs I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings, encouraging students to create visual art or written responses exploring freedom and self-expression.
50. Common Dust by Georgia Douglas Johnson
âAnd who shall separate the dust / What later we shall be âŠâ
Johnsonâs brief yet profound poem reminds readers that in death, distinctionsâof race, class, or powerâfade away, offering a universal vision of equality and shared humanity.
Classroom tip: Use this poem to spark a philosophical discussion about equality and legacy, prompting students to write reflective pieces on what connects all people despite their differences.
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What are your favorite Black History Month poems for kids? Come share and discuss in the We Are Teachers HELPLINE group on Facebook!
Plus, if you loved these Black History Month poems, check out these Black History Month Activities for February and Beyond.
