Black Poetry Day: History, Facts & Insights

This is an in-depth look at all the must-know facts about Black Poetry Day (2024) 🗓️ that no one tells you about. Black Poetry Day is observed on October 17th.

Among the information you’ll find below: the history of Black Poetry Day, activities to do on and how to observe this holiday, as well as captivating facts you should know about Black Poetry Day.

📅 What day is Black Poetry Day 2024?

In 2024, Black Poetry Day is on Tuesday, October 17th. It is the 3rd Tuesday in October; in 2024, it is Thursday. There are until the next observance. You also can explore all the cool details and facts about October 17, 2023, that you might not be aware of.

Black Poetry Day is a special day that takes place every year on October 17 to celebrate and honor the outstanding African American poets, past and present. It is a day that holds significance for anyone who appreciates books, poetry, or writing, regardless of their race or background. On Black Poetry Day, we come together to remember and pay tribute to the rich legacy and history of black poets. This day also marks the birth of Jupiter Hammon, the first black poet to be published in the United States, and a figure widely recognized as the pioneer of African American literature. Black Poetry Day serves as a platform to acknowledge and celebrate the significant contributions that black poets have made to the world of literature, and how their poetry beautifully captures the essence of the black experience.

📜 Black Poetry Day History

Jupiter Hammon, born in 1711 at Lloyd Manor in Long Island during the time of slavery, was allowed by his owners, The Lloyds, to attend classes at the Anglican Church’s Society for the Propagation of the Gospel in Foreign Parts. Utilizing his education, Hammon wrote poetry that incorporated rich metaphors and symbolism. His first poem, “An Evening Thought: Salvation by Christ with Penitential Cries,” was written in 1761 when he was approximately 50 years old. Being a respected preacher and clerk, Hammon’s poems about slavery gained wide circulation. Eighteen years later, he published his second poem, “An Address to Miss Phillis Wheatley,” in support of the first published black female novelist. Hammon recognized the significance of encouraging and supporting other black writers, particularly during a time when they received little support compared to their white counterparts. Today, numerous exceptional black poets worldwide write about the shared black experience and their individual experiences through various mediums such as written poetry, rap, and spoken-word poetry. Although Black Poetry Day is celebrated nationwide, it is only recognized as a state holiday in Oregon.

✅ Black Poetry Day Facts

🔖 Langston Hughes
Langston Hughes, a prominent figure in literature, is recognized as a key figure in the development of jazz poetry. He wrote his initial piece of jazz poetry, titled “When Sue Wears Red,” during his time in high school.

🔖 Gwendolyn Brooks
Gwendolyn Brooks, an African-American poet, made history by becoming the first black person to be awarded the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry. She earned this prestigious accolade for her collection of poems called “Annie Allen,” which delves into the experiences and journey of a young African-American girl as she navigates through life.

🔖 Paul Laurence Dunbar
Paul Dunbar was an influential African American poet who gained recognition across the United States. His talent was evident from a young age, as he began publishing his poems at the remarkable age of 14. Perhaps you are familiar with the opening line of one of his renowned works, “Sympathy,” where he expresses empathy for a captive bird.

👍 Why Is Black Poetry Day Important

Finding a terrific new poet is always a thrilling prospect. There is no better day than Black Poetry Day to discover new poets and poetry.

Listening to other perspectives is essential for developing a well-rounded worldview. Black Poetry Day celebrates varied new voices telling experiences that differ from those we encounter in our daily lives.

Black people have historically been marginalized. When white writers became famous across the world, many black people were flogged for merely learning to read and write in English whenever they could. Black Poetry Day allows us to commemorate the tenacity of black poets and the accomplishments of black authors worldwide.

🙂 How To Observe Black Poetry Day

⚡ Attend a predominantly black poetry slam
Even if you’re unable to organize a poetry slam, you still have the opportunity to participate in one. By attending a poetry slam featuring predominantly black headliners, you can expand your literary horizons and gain a deeper understanding of the black experience and its historical significance.

⚡ Support a Black poet
Black Poetry Day is the perfect occasion to demonstrate your solidarity with the talented black poets in your community. Take the opportunity to discover and read the works of a new black poet. Additionally, make sure to share the poems of your favorite African American poets with others. Another meaningful way to show your support is by making a donation to a black literary publication.

⚡ Host a poetry reading
Organizing a poetry reading or slam event and inviting your acquaintances is a great way to introduce lesser-known black writers to a wider audience.

📅 When is Black Poetry Day?

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