Black History Month is a time to celebrate and honor the rich contributions of African Americans throughout history. One way to engage children in this important observance is through poetry. Poetry allows children to explore important themes, emotions, and historical events in a creative and engaging way. Here are 20 powerful Black History Month poems that are perfect for kids of all ages:
- “I, Too” by Langston Hughes
- “Still I Rise” by Maya Angelou
- “Harriet Tubman” by Eloise Greenfield
- “The Negro Mother” by Langston Hughes
- “Hey Black Child” by Useni Eugene Perkins
- “Freedom’s Plow” by Langston Hughes
- “Phenomenal Woman” by Maya Angelou
- “Rosa Parks” by Eloise Greenfield
- “If We Must Die” by Claude McKay
- “The Mask” by Paul Laurence Dunbar
- “Strange Fruit” by Abel Meeropol
- “Dreams” by Langston Hughes
- “I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings” by Maya Angelou
- “Frederick Douglass” by Robert Hayden
- “The Creation” by James Weldon Johnson
- “Malcolm X” by Eloise Greenfield
- “America” by Claude McKay
- “The Negro Speaks of Rivers” by Langston Hughes
- “Witness” by Nikki Giovanni
- “The Darker Brother” by Gwendolyn Brooks
These poems cover a wide range of topics, from historical figures like Harriet Tubman and Rosa Parks to themes of resilience, identity, and the African American experience. By sharing these poems with children, you can help foster a deeper understanding and appreciation for Black history and culture.
