by Daniel Johnson

October 18, 2025

Hakeem Jeffries Goes Scorched Earth On Karoline Leavitt

Jeffries slammed Leavitt after she claimed the Democratic Party's main constituency was composed of 'Hamas terrorists, illegal aliens, and violent criminals.'

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY) had nothing but time and all the smoke for Donald Trump’s White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, on Oct. 17, only one day after she made an explosive and unfounded claim that the Democratic Party’s main constituency was composed of “Hamas terrorists, illegal aliens, and violent criminals.”

As he addressed reporters amid the government’s 17-day shutdown, he also shut down her ridiculous argument, positing that she’s likely some combination of demented, ignorant, and a stone-cold liar in his remarks.

“I’m not sure whether she’s just demented, ignorant, a stone-cold liar, or all of the above,” Jeffries stated. “But the notion that an official White House spokesperson would say that the Democratic Party consists of terrorists, violent criminals, and undocumented immigrants. This makes no sense that this is what the American people are getting from the Trump administration in the middle of a shutdown.”

According to The New Republic, Leavitt’s remarks created a firestorm among Democrats, as Sen. Chris Murphy (D-CT), Rep. Greg Cesar (D-TX), and Kamala Harris’ running mate, Gov. Tim Walz (D-MN), all lobbed their own criticisms of both Leavitt’s comments and the White House in general.

This is grossly dark. These are broken people.

But it's also so politically dumb.

How do they think Americans will react to being told that anyone who doesn't support Trump is a terrorist? https://t.co/cWa5VsET5r
— Chris Murphy 🟧 (@ChrisMurphyCT) October 16, 2025

On X, formerly known as Twitter, Murphy noted in a reply to a video of Leavitt’s statement, which appears to be a criticism of New York City’s Democratic nominee for mayor, the Democratic Socialist-leaning Zohran Mamdani, that “This is grossly dark. These are broken people. But it’s also so politically dumb. How do they think Americans will react to being told that anyone who doesn’t support Trump is a terrorist?”

Gov. Walz, meanwhile, appealed to the better angels of both the Democratic and the Republican parties, noting that “Most Republicans are good people. Most Democrats are good people. The White House says outrageous things to make you hate your neighbor. Your neighbor isn’t the problem. The White House is.”

Rep. Cesar, like Rep. Jeffries, was more pointed in his commentary, which, like Sen. Murphy’s response, was attached to a clip of Leavitt’s remarks.

“Karoline Leavitt should resign. They try to make us hate each other to distract from the fact that they’re robbing us all blind. It’s sick,” Rep. Cesar wrote.

However, unlike Gov. Walz, Dan Pfeiffer, a former communications director for President Barack Obama who also co-hosts the “Pod Save America” podcast, noted in a post to his X account that the absence of Republicans criticizing Leavitt’s remarks indicates a tacit approval.

“This s— is so f—ing dangerous and everyone on the Republican side just nods along,” Pfeiffer stated.

Trump administration officials and their sycophants, including Leavitt, have routinely cast political opposition as violent rebellion, but according to the Center for Progressive Reform, many of the actions of the Trump administration echo, if not outright rhyme, with previous attempts to disenfranchise and plunder Black Americans across American history.

by Kandiss Edwards

October 18, 2025

Keturah Ariel Bobo, Renowned Illustrator Of ‘I Am Enough,’ Dies At 45

Bobo’s work on 'I Am Enough' broke through as both a commercial blending bold imagery and affirming messages for girls of color.

Artist and illustrator Keturah Ariel Nailah Bobo has died at the age of 45 following a long-time undisclosed illness, her family announced

The Ohio-native’s work on a New York Times bestselling children’s book, “I Am Enough,” written by Grace Byers, broke through as both a commercial and cultural success. She blended bold imagery and affirming messages aimed at young children, especially girls of color.

In an Instagram post, Bobo’s family notified fans and followers of the tragic news. Honoring Bobo’s “deeply private soul” the family did not elaborate on the conditions surrounding her death. However, Bobo’s loved ones encouraged others to celebrate her life through art.

“We ask that you honor her memory in the ways she loved most — through art, music, color, and human connection. Keturah was a brilliant artist, a devoted friend, and a radiant source of joy and inspiration. Though her time with us was far too short, her creativity, laughter, and light live on — in her art and in the hearts of everyone who knew her,” the post read.

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A post shared by keturah ari'el nailah bobo (@keturahariel)

In the years following the release of “I Am Enough,” Bobo was considered a go-to illustrator for projects seeking a multicultural lens. She regularly appeared at book festivals and events where she spoke about creating art that supports self-esteem in young readers.

Over her career, she illustrated a total of 10 books for young readers, including: “The Night Is Yours,” written by Abdul-Razak Zachariah, “A Is For All The Things You Are,” written by Anne Ferguson Hinely, and Grace Byer’s “I Believe I Can.”

Bobo’s approach to illustration was praised for its warmth, diversity, and emotional depth. The mother and artist’s work typically conveyed empowerment, affirmation, and representation, especially for Black children who seldom saw themselves in mainstream picture books.

She spoke about her goals in a 2024 interview with online publication Matter.: “I want to make sure my son sees characters that represent who he is or who he could potentially be,” Bobo said. “And you don’t realize how important that idea is unless you don’t have it.”

Bobo’s legacy leaves a mark on children’s publishing, particularly in efforts to increase visual diversity. While her time was too short, she made an enduring impact. No arrangement details have been released at the time of publication.

by Cedric 'BIG CED' Thornton

October 18, 2025

The Hip Hop Museum Honors Dignitaries At New York City Gala

The Hip-Hop Museum held a Black Tie Gala to raise money for the organization and to honor select Hip-Hop figures.

As The Hip Hop Museum readies to launch in 2026, Rocky Bucano, the CEO of the upcoming homage to hip-hop, held a fundraiser/gala that also doubled as an event to honor several esteemed individuals involved in the genre of hip-hop.

The black-tie event took place at Cipriani Wall Street in New York City on Oct. 15, as many fans of the genre, artists, executives, and supporters gathered to celebrate the honorees of the night. The individuals who were honored included Slick Rick, Fat Joe, Kool DJ Red Alert, Dr. Michael Eric Dyson, Sal Abbatiello, La Reezy, Golnar Khosrowshahi, Adam & Mindy Silverstein, Carl Heastie, and Andre Harrell (posthumously).

The gala took place with the anticipation of The Hip Hop Museum’s opening, which is slated to happen in about a year, with an October 2026 date pending.

The event began with the sounds of vintage hip-hop from as far back as the ’80s, with the selection reminding those who were around at the inception of the genre of how the sounds of the city were before the commercialization of hip-hop. As attendees vibed to the music and people were bumping into other hip-hop heads they may not have seen in a while, the atmosphere was perfect, with no hint of “bougieness” from the eclectic and diverse crowd.

Luminaries of the culture were in attendance, like Big Daddy Kane, Christopher Williams, Jeff Redd, Father MC, DJ Cassidy, Peter Gunz, The D.O.C., Kim Osorio, Reuben Diaz, Jr., Doug E. Fresh, Nelson George, Mr. Cheeks (Lost Boyz), Grandmaster Caz (The Cold Crush Brothers), Prime Minister Pete Nice (3rd Bass), Paradise Gray (X-Clan), and so many others that everyone can’t be listed. Several of the aforementioned artists grabbed the mic in celebration of the genre.

Big Daddy Kane, Hip Hop Museum — Big Daddy Kane

When Yo-Yo took the stage to start her duties as host of the event, the crowd was already pumped up to continue to celebrate the energy of hip-hop. With several performers dancing and singing before Yo-Yo’s entrance, the excitement for the awards ceremony had reached a peak, similar to the main act at a concert about to take the stage.

Of course, being that this was also a fundraiser, calls were made for attendees to donate to help with the construction, development, and everything associated with The Hip Hop Museum. Evidently, one of Queens’ favorites and arguably, the borough’s best, or at least, most thoughtful lyricists, Nasir Jones, AKA Nas, who was in attendance, stepped up and informed the crowd that he was so moved by what he had already witnessed that he pledged $1 million to the museum.

As every honoree was presented to the audience and received their awards, the electric energy continued late into the night, even going on for at least an hour past the scheduled end time. Due to the hip-hop energy expressed throughout the audience, it felt like the night would never end.

Kool DJ Red Alert’s appearance and recognition for all he has done for the culture weren’t lost on him.

“This year’s gala was next level as it reached higher & higher, leading to the official opening of The Hip Hop Museum in 2026. I am humbly honored to be acknowledged for my passion for this culture we call Hip-Hop! Thank you for receiving this award!”

The World’s Greatest Entertainer, Doug E. Fresh, was ecstatic to present his friend and rhyming partner, Slick Rick, with his honor, as he also hosted the performances on that night, especially for the performers who repped Uptown Records for Andre Harrell.

“It was a night to remember! So many friends and so many great memories! And most of all, very honored to give Slick Rick his award and to honor the memory and legacy of Mr. Andre Harrell and Uptown Records! This museum is going to teach people things about hip-hop they never knew!!”

With the promise of the next gala being held at the completed museum, the anticipation of one of the greatest things to happen to hip-hop looks like it will surpass whatever expectations the culture has as we look forward to the opening in the Bronx, home of hip-hop.

Honorees and the awards they received at the gala:

●Andre Harrell—Founder of Uptown Records & Former CEO of Motown Records, Legacy Award (Posthumous)

●Slick Rick— Hip-Hop Legend & Storytelling Pioneer, Storytelling Vanguard Award

●Fat Joe— Entertainment Icon & Entrepreneur, People’s Champ Vanguard Award

●Sal Abbatiello— Founder & CEO, Fever Enterprises, All the Way Up Award

●Adam & Mindy Silverstein— Philanthropists, One Love Philanthropy Award

● The Honorable Carl Heastie— Speaker, New York State Assembly, Changemaker Award

●Dr. Michael Eric Dyson— Author, Professor, and Cultural Critic, Hip-Hop Scholar Award

● Golnar Khosrowshahi— Founder & CEO, Reservoir, Blaze the Trail Award

●Elizabeth Velez— President, The Velez Organization, Foundation to the Roof Award

●LaReezy— Artist & Cultural Voice, Next Up Award

●Kool DJ Red Alert- Legendary Hip-Hop Deejay, Sound of the Culture Award

RELATED CONTENT: The Hip-Hop Museum Is Hitting The Road

Kentucky, Louisville, Small Business, grant

by Jeffrey McKinney

October 18, 2025

Black And Minority Businesses Slammed By Government Shutdown, With Projected Losses Up To $450M

Contract and payment delays are among the largest setbacks hitting Black and other minority businesses amid the federal government shutdown.

Black- and other minority-owned businesses are being slammed by the federal government shutdown, severely hindering their operating ability.

Started on Oct. 1, the closure is on pace to be one of the longest in U.S. history. A new survey of those firms by the National Minority Supplier Development Council (NMSDC) shows they are being negatively impacted by economic weakness stemming from the shutdown.

Simultaneously, the stoppage is projected to bring losses of between $400 million and $450 million for minority business enterprises (MBEs), based on a new calculation by Creative Investment Research.

That overall estimate includes $150 million in contract and payment delays, $125 million in reduced demand for business goods and services, $75 million in staffing reductions, including layoffs, and $50 million from increased short-term borrowing costs for the enterprises.

One of the nation’s largest business advocacy groups for MBEs, the NMSDC got 89 responses from its member firms from 26 states and jurisdictions that it quizzed over two days this month.

Don Cravins, interim president and CEO of NMSDC, stated by email, “The numbers tell a painful truth. Within our network of 15,000 minority-owned businesses, more than a third are being directly hit by this shutdown.”

He stated further, “In just three weeks, these firms have lost nearly a quarter of their revenue–translating into hundreds of millions in economic losses. Behind every data point are real entrepreneurs, real employees, and real families. We can’t afford to treat minority-owned or small businesses as afterthoughts–they are essential to America’s strength and recovery.”

The latest survey comes as observers have surmised the shutdown could extend into November as legislators negotiate to end the stalemate.

In general, federal government shutdowns are bad news for small businesses (SMBs). And those firms with existing contracts from federal agencies are reportedly among the hardest hit during a shutdown.

Kelly Loeffler, administrator of the U.S. Small Business Administration, a vital lender to SMBs, stated the federal agency has halted guaranteeing loans as the government shutdown continues. It has been estimated that 320 small businesses are ceasing to obtain $170 million in SBA-guaranteed funding daily amid the shutdown.

William Michael Cunningham, an economist and owner of Creative Investment Research, shared with BLACK ENTERPRISE that he believes that the survey response rate was relatively small because of the apprehension many minority business owners feel about taking a stand on any issue now.

Moreover, he declared the losses are permanent and significant. He says the survey he helped NMSDC compile showed nearly 33% of respondents experiencing contract delays, almost 34% payment interruptions, and 37% a steady decrease in services. Operationally, almost 32% reported delayed projects or deliveries, and about the same amount have had to adjust cash flow or payment schedules.

The NMSDC survey included MBEs confidentially reporting everything from having “about $1.6 million in outstanding accounts receivable tied to government contracts” to having “to take out business cash advance loans to make payroll.”

On adjusting, one stated, “We have shifted our focus onto State opportunities which are in fiscal spending windows with funding already approved.” Another expressed, “Trying to find more private opportunities or using lending funds to purchase clients from competitors who may reduce services.”

Cunningham says while not every Black or minority firm relies on federal government contracts for revenue generation, many do.

Cravins concluded, “The findings give us a clear direction. “Our members are not asking for charity—they are asking for stronger connections. We will be expanding our work to facilitate intra-MBE partnerships, financing, and new digital platforms that make that collaboration easier.”

WNBA, Jackie Young, collective bargaining

by Jameelah Mullen

October 18, 2025

‘We Deserve What We’re Asking For’: Jackie Young Weighs In On WNBA Collective Bargaining Agreement

Is a WNBA lockout on the horizon?

As the WNBA and the Women’s National Basketball Players Association (WNBPA) work toward a new collective bargaining agreement, Las Vegas Aces guard Jackie Young gave her two cents on what she hopes to see in the next deal. The current contract expires on Oct. 31.

”I think the biggest thing is to, you know, come to an agreement. Obviously, we want what’s best for us. We deserve what we are asking for,“ Young told ESPN.

Young, who recently helped her team win its third championship in the last four seasons, says that players in the league have proven their worth.

“We’re the best in the world,” Young told TMZ.

When asked about the most critical components of the pending contract, the Olympic gold medalist said that money is among the top priorities.

“Obviously, pay is a big one,” she said. “But I think the biggest thing, like, is the revenue share,” the six-footer said.

Revenue sharing is the portion of a league’s total earnings allocated to its players. According to Bloomberg, WNBA athletes receive roughly nine percent of the league’s profits, which is significantly lower than the 50% share earned by NBA players.

WNBPA President Nneka Ogwumike echoes Young’s sentiments, noting that while the WNBA has experienced growth, the current CBA doesn’t reflect that.

“We’re seeing expansion, and the players are just saying, ‘Hey, let us have our fair share of that,'” Ogwumike told ESPN in August. “Sometimes that means proposing something new that makes sense for the time. Not really new—new to us, not to other leagues,” Ogwumike said.

According to Sportico, WNBA Finals ratings have steadily increased since 2019. Purchased in 2021 for $2 million, the Las Vegas Aces are now valued at over $300 million. The Golden State Valkyries made history as the first women’s team in pro sports to be valued at $500 million. All WNBA teams’ values have grown by more than a certain percentage in the past year. The outlet also notes that the total value of all franchises is approximately $3.5 billion.

by Cedric 'BIG CED' Thornton

October 18, 2025

Steve Settle III, Former Howard University Player, Signs With Miami Heat

'The opportunity to be a small piece of such a storied organization is something I don’t take for granted,' said Settle.

Undrafted basketball player Steve Settle III, a former Howard University player, has joined the Miami Heat organization after spending time with the team this past summer in the NBA Summer League.

The Heat announced that it signed Settle to an Exhibit 10 contract (a one-year contract that’s not a guaranteed deal for the NBA minimum salary) and will send him to play for the team’s G League team, the Sioux Falls Skyforce. He will be wearing No. 4.

OFFICIAL: The Miami HEAT have signed forward Steve Settle III.

More info ➡️ https://t.co/exz6Ak8A4N pic.twitter.com/vyE2SnASla
— Miami HEAT (@MiamiHEAT) October 14, 2025

Settle, who went undrafted in the NBA Draft, played for the Heat in five games for the team, including two during the California Classic in San Francisco and three for the NBA2K26 in Las Vegas. The former Howard player averaged 2.2 points, 2.4 rebounds, 1 steal, and 1 block. He averaged 33.2 minutes a game and shot 47.8% from the field, 41.6% from three-point range, and had 73.6% from the foul line. Settle led the team in rebounds, blocks, minutes, and three-point field goals made. He came in second place in free throws made and third in points, assists, steals, and field goals made during his time on the court.

According to HBCU Gameday, Settle graduated from Temple University last year, averaging 12.6 points, 6.2 rebounds, 1.7 assists, 1 steal, and 1 block. He led the team in rebounds and blocked shots. He played one season at Temple, but before joining the Owls, he played for Howard University, where he was a two-time All-MEAC (Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference) selection.

While playing for the HBCU, he was a main factor in leading the Bisons to the school’s 2023 MEAC championship and NCAA Tournament appearance. The NCAA entry was the first for Howard in more than 30 years.

Settle spoke to Sports Illustrated and gave a statement about joining the Heat.

“Miami is a very structured, disciplined organization, perfect for a guy entering his first year as a professional athlete looking to build the right habits. The opportunity to be a small piece of such a storied organization is something I don’t take for granted. I think my skillset as a taller, versatile wing is something that can and has benefited greatly from my time with the Heat so far. I am nowhere near a finished product, but I’m so encouraged by how much I’ve grown as a player in just a few short months. This is just the beginning for me, and I’m looking forward to my continued development in the G League with the Sioux Falls Skyforce. I cannot wait to see what the future holds.”

by Jameelah Mullen

October 18, 2025

Our Favorite Couple Is Back! Nia Long and Larenz Tate Reunite For A New Romance Film

We are here for it.

Gen X and millennials have reason to celebrate. Nia Long and Larenz Tate, the stars of the 1997 cult classic Love Jones, have reunited for a new romantic drama on Netflix, Deadline reported.

Written by Kay Oyegun, the film takes inspiration from Maxwell’s Urban Hang Suite, the soul-infused album that first captivated audiences in 1996 with its story of love rooted in the singer’s own life. The crooner is also one of the executive producers of the film; other producers include James Lopez, Charles D. King, and Poppy Hanks. Eugene Ashe, who also wrote and directed Sylvie’s Love, will direct the film, whose title hasn’t been released.

Although producers remain tight-lipped about the film’s plot, Maxwell’s debut album itself might provide some clues to what’s ahead.

Long, who played Nina Mosely in Love Jones, took to Instagram to share the news of the upcoming project.

“The timing is divine, and working with @larenztate is my favorite thing to do. We’re doing this one for YOU!!!! Thank you for all the love from the bottom of my heart and soul. Let’s go,” the mother of two wrote.

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A post shared by Nia Long (@iamnialong)

Fans lit up the comments section with excitement.

“Let’s call it what it is, people LOVE JONES 2,“ one fan wrote.

“We’ve been waiting for another collab since 1997!!! YES, Ma’am and Sir,” one fan said.

This won’t be the first time Black America’s favorite fictional couple reunited in front of the camera. The pair came together for the upcoming Michael Jackson biopic Michael. Long portrays family matriarch Katherine Jackson, and Tate plays Berry Gordy.

Last year, they reprised their roles as Nina and Darius for a Walmart holiday commercial. The Love Jones-themed commercial showed Nina (Long) receiving a surprise birthday gift from Darius (Tate), who was now Nina’s husband.

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A post shared by itsOnlyEntertainment.net (@itsonlyentertainment)

The commercial set social media ablaze, with fans begging for a Love Jones sequel. The jury is out on that, but Netflix’s upcoming film might be the next best thing.

XCEL Summit for Men 2025: Key Takeaways + Gallery

by Ida Harris

October 18, 2025

XCEL Summit for Men 2025: Key Takeaways + Gallery

Over the course of three transformative days, men from across the nation came together

The BLACK ENTERPRISE 2025 XCEL Summit for Men, hosted by FedEx, delivered a movement. Over the course of three transformative days, men from across the nation came together not only to network but to elevate purpose, leadership, and legacy. As the dust settles and reflections begin, several key themes stood out, offering powerful takeaways for those looking to build, lead, and leave a mark that transcends generations.

1. Legacy + Wealth Building: The Power of Generational Thinking

At the heart of the summit was a clear and urgent message: wealth is more than income — it’s impact. Conversations and keynotes underscored the importance of building generational wealth, not just for personal success but for broader community empowerment. From financial literacy panels to fireside chats with leading investors and CEOs, attendees were encouraged to turn career wins into long-term assets that uplift families, neighborhoods, and future leaders.

2. Networking Across Sectors: Building Bridges, Not Silos

One of the summit’s strengths was its intentional mix of attendees — from athletes and entrepreneurs to faith leaders and corporate executives. This diversity sparked cross-industry dialogue and collaboration, allowing for the kind of innovation that only emerges when different worlds collide. Whether it was during structured networking events or impromptu hallway conversations, relationships formed at XCEL weren’t just transactional — they were transformational.

3. Candid Dialogue: Where Real Talk Meets Real Solutions

The summit’s signature “barbershop-style” conversations were more than just a branding element — they were a platform for truth-telling. In these spaces, men tackled tough topics like identity, masculinity, purpose, and accountability. The result? Brave conversations that broke barriers, created empathy, and inspired action rooted in authenticity and shared experience.

4. Recognition of Excellence: Celebrating Black Male Brilliance

From red-carpet moments to powerful awards ceremonies, the summit highlighted the excellence that often goes unseen or underappreciated. Honoring pioneers in business, sports, faith, and philanthropy, XCEL modeled what success looks like — not just as achievement, but as service. These honors served as both celebration and challenge: a reminder that the bar is high, but attainable for all.

5. Action-Orientation: From Inspiration to Implementation

Unlike many events that stir emotion that fades with time, XCEL was designed to produce actionable outcomes. Workshops provided practical tools — from financial strategies to leadership frameworks — aimed at helping men leave the summit not just motivated, but equipped. The call was clear: Take what you’ve learned and build. Teach. Lead. Mentor. Multiply the impact.

Haiti, france, reparation, Haitians, Haitian Heritage Month

by Mitti Hicks

October 18, 2025

Doctors Without Borders Permanently Closes in Haiti Amid Violence

Doctors Without Borders is an international medical humanitarian organization that provides emergency medical aid in crisis zones around the world.

Ongoing violence in Haiti’s capital, Port-Au-Prince, has caused Doctors Without Borders to close its emergency care center permanently.

Doctors Without Borders is an international medical humanitarian organization that provides emergency medical aid in crisis zones around the world. The organization operates independently and impartially, responding to medical needs regardless of race, religion, or politics. Operations are usually found in places where other organizations cannot or will not go due to conflict, disease, or disaster.

As NPR first reported, Doctors Without Borders’ emergency care center has been a lifeline to Haiti’s capital city, which is now 90% controlled by gangs. More than half of the health facilities in Port Au Prince have shuttered doors because of the violence. The emergency center, which opened in 2006, temporarily closed in March after armed men opened fire on four of the organization’s vehicles as staff evacuated the center.

“The building has already been hit several times by stray bullets due to its location close to the combat zones, which would make resuming activities too dangerous for both patients and staff,” Jean-Marc Biquet, MSF head of mission in Haiti, told NPR.

Millions Displaced In Haiti Due To Violence, According To United Nations

According to the United Nations International Organization for Migration (IOM), the violence has displaced over one million people since the beginning of the year. Children make up over half of the displaced population.

“In the capital alone, displacement has nearly doubled, rising by 87 percent, fueled by relentless gang violence, the collapse of essential services — particularly healthcare — and worsening food insecurity,” the IOM reported. “This represents the highest recorded number of displacements due to violence in Haiti, underscoring the urgent needs for security and assistance.”

From January to June, over 3,000 people have been killed across Haiti, and an additional 1,100 were injured. Between 2021 and March 2025, Doctors Without Borders reportedly treated more than 100,000 patients.

Honoring A Few Wordsmiths On Black Poetry Day

by Ahsan Washington

October 17, 2025

Honoring A Few Wordsmiths On Black Poetry Day

These eight poets contributed to the American canon

Black Poetry Day does more than fill a spot on the calendar; it serves as a reminder that poetry has launched movements, created community, challenged power, and given poets a lane to voice their thoughts and truths. These eight poets have written verse and sonnets that have contributed to the American and global literary canon.

Phillis Wheatley

Phillis Wheatley was an enslaved poet whose talent vaulted her into the pantheon of poets. Her celebrated work, the 1773 collection Poems on Subjects, Religious and Moral, made Wheatley the first Black woman in America to publish a book of poetry. Brought to Boston in 1761, Wheatley’s verses swiftly circulated throughout the colonies and across the Atlantic to England. Wheatley’s literary triumph upended 18th‑century assumptions about race and intellect, giving abolitionists an example to champion the end of slavery and the education and humanity of people.

Langston Hughes

Photo credit: Carl Van Vechten, public domain

Langston Hughes loomed large in the Harlem Renaissance, juggling the roles of poet, novelist, playwright, and columnist. He let the syncopated beat of Jazz seep into his lines, sketching the rhythms of life in a way that made poetry feel both within reach and political. His quoted verses, “The Negro Speaks of Rivers” and “Montage of a Dream Deferred,” still echo today. Throughout the 1920s, Hughes’ output charted the course of modernism. Hughes championed the idea that poetry should spring from the people and speak back to them.

Gwendolyn Brooks

Born in Chicago in 1917, Gwendolyn Brooks, poet, teacher, and activist, crafted verses that cut to the heart of issues of race, poverty, family, and the stubborn resilience of life. Her Pulitzer‑winning collection, Annie Allen, was published while she was still a teenager. As the first Black writer ever to receive a Pulitzer, Brooks spent years shepherding younger poets, leaving an indelible imprint on the Black literary tradition.

Maya Angelou

Maya Angelou, born Marguerite Johnson, entered the world in 1928 in St. Louis, Missouri. Over the decades, she wore many hats —poet, memoirist, performer, and activist —leaving a mark on American culture. Among her pieces are the 1969 memoir I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings and the poem “On the Pulse of Morning,” which she delivered at President Bill Clinton’s 1993 inauguration. Her career began in the 1950s and stretched well into the 2000s. She wove her testimony into the fabric of words. Angelou used lyric and memoir as a conduit to speak on trauma and communal struggle, and in the process rose to the stature of a great poet.

Amiri Baraka

Amiri Baraka, born LeRoi Jones in 1934, wore many hats: poet, playwright, polemicist. Baraka helped launch the Black Arts Movement. His body of work: poems, plays, and essays, zeroed in on Black aesthetics and a fierce call for political self‑determination. During the 1960s and 1970s, his influence was a linchpin of the movement.  Baraka had been active in the scene since the 1950s. Baraka repeatedly turned his gaze toward communities, insisting that art be politically accountable and serve the cause of Black liberation.

Nikki Giovanni

Nikki Giovanni, a poet, educator, and a defining voice of the Black Power movement, let love, politics, family, and grief swirl through her verses. Her first major splash onto the scene came in 1968 with the collections “Feeling” and “Black Talk.” Thanks to her accessible spoken word, Giovanni quickly earned the label “poet of the people,” a reputation that has endured for decades. Giovanni began publishing in the 1960s and has remained a vibrant cultural presence well into the 21st century, marked by the outpouring of tributes and accolades that followed her death.

Rita Dove

Rita Dove, Pulitzer‑winning poet and U.S. Poet Laureate from 1993 to 1995, has pushed the tradition forward with a blend of imagination and deft formal craft. Her impact on letters has been acknowledged through a host of honors. A native of Akron, Ohio, Dove rose to prominence by teaching, giving readings, and serving in a series of high‑profile appointments.

Claudia Rankine

Claudia Rankine, a poet, essayist, and playwright turns her attention to race, media, and the lyric essay with a probing intensity famously in the 2014 volume “Citizen: An American Lyric” by weaving poetry, vivid images the book lays bare the quiet pervasive forms of everyday racism; the hybrid approach has scooped up a string of awards and sparked a fresh wave of discussion, about how race and aesthetic form intersect. Though “Citizen” appeared in 2014, Rankine’s oeuvre reaches back to the century and continues well into the early 21st century. Co‑founding the Racial Imaginary Institute, Rankine now teaches in New York, constantly expanding the limits of genre and documentary poetics to confront microaggressions, spectacle, and the racial imagination that suffuses life.