Black Poetry Day

Black Poetry Day is observed every year on October 17. This day honors the voices of Black poets—past and present—and commemorates the birth of Jupiter Hammon, widely recognized as the first published Black poet in the United States.

History of Black Poetry Day

Black Poetry Day was first established in 1985, with the date chosen to mark the birth of Jupiter Hammon in 1711. He published his first poem, An Evening Thought: Salvation by Christ, with Penitential Cries, in 1761, becoming a foundational figure in African American literary history.

Some sources suggest that the idea for the observance was rooted in cultural and literary movements in the 1970s, as a way to formally acknowledge and celebrate Black writers and their contributions. Over time the day has grown to include readings, workshops, poetry slams, and community celebrations highlighting both historic and contemporary Black poetic voices.

Why is Black Poetry Day important?

Poetry has long served as a powerful medium of expression, resistance, identity, and healing in Black communities. Black Poetry Day gives space to recognize how poetry captures the joys, sorrows, struggles, triumphs, and hopes that might not otherwise be heard. Celebrating these voices deepens our collective cultural memory and ensures that stories of resilience and creativity are uplifted.

Moreover, Black Poetry Day helps challenge the marginalization of Black voices in literary canons and cultural institutions. By centering Black poets, the observance encourages broader inclusion in publishing, education, and public arts, and inspires future generations to write, read, and share their own perspectives in poetic form.

Here are some reflections on its significance:

• It honors the legacy and influence of Black poets through history
• It affirms poetry as a tool of voice, identity, and social reflection
• It encourages recognition of underrepresented literary voices
• It helps enrich the cultural and artistic diversity in literary spaces
• It inspires new and emerging Black poets to share their work

How to Observe Black Poetry Day

There are many ways to honor Black Poetry Day with intention and creativity. A simple yet powerful act is to read or share a poem by a Black poet—historic or contemporary—and reflect on its meaning. You could also host a poetry reading or open mic event focused on Black voices, perhaps in a school, library, community center, or online space. Invite poets to speak, read, or mentor emerging writers.

Another approach is to create or support poetic projects—anthologies, podcasts, workshops, or collaborations between poets and other artists (musicians, visual artists). Encourage discussions around how Black poetry intersects with identity, activism, history, and healing. You might also partner with literary organizations, educational programs, or cultural centers to spotlight Black poets locally or globally.

Here are ideas you can try:

• Share or recite a poem by a Black poet you admire
• Organize or attend a Black‑poetry reading or open mic
• Collaborate with others to produce a poetry anthology or zine
• Launch a poetry challenge inviting new voices (especially Black poets)
• Engage in discussions about race, art, and expression through poetry

Black Poetry Day Dates Table