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We are kicking off our celebration of Women’s History Month with one of the most prolific and wise Black woman and mothers of our time. Dr. Maya Angelou left a legacy none can compete with and her work will live a long life leaving impressions on each of us. The world continues to celebrate this icon as the U.S. Postal Service recently announced a “forever” stamp honoring Angelou. Angelou’s poems often affirmed what it meant to be a woman- to be phenomenal and ever-evolving.

Angelou was not confined to the title of poet, but also wore the hats of professor, Calypso dancer, film director, Tony-nominated performer, as well as an official with the Southern Christian Leadership Conference. She also received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2011. Mama Maya showed women that it was indeed possible to not only have it all, but give even more back to society. We will forever have Dr. Maya Angelou in our thoughts and use every opportunity to stand on her shoulders.

We’ve collected 19 of her revered poems for you to read. If we could include all of them, we would. Click continue and comment to let us know your favorite Dr. Maya Angelou poem, even if it’s not listed here.

 

The Gamut by Maya Angelou

Soft you day, be velvet soft,

My true love approaches,

Look you bright, you dusty sun,

Array your golden coaches.

Soft you wind, be soft as silk

My true love is speaking.

Hold you birds, your silver throats,

His golden voice I’m seeking.

Come you death, in haste, do come

My shroud of black be weaving,

Quiet my heart, be deathly quiet,

My true love is leaving.

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