Amanda Gorman and Maya Angelou have much in common in terms of their work as wordsmiths, but the question of whether or not the two are related has yet to be definitively answered. While the evidence for a familial connection is largely circumstantial, their prolific accomplishments in the world of poetry, social justice, and advocacy have established a powerful bond between them.
Gorman is a modern-day poet and author whose works focus heavily on social justice and Black empowerment. In 2021, Gorman was tapped to compose and perform an original poem at the inauguration of President Joe Biden. Her poem, “The Hill We Climb”, touched the hearts of millions and cemented her place in history.
Likewise, Angelou was an accomplished author, activist, and poet famous for her autobiographical works which spanned 30 years of her adult life. During 1988, she was the second poet to ever perform at a Presidential inauguration—this time for Former President Bill Clinton’s first term.
Although the two artists have achieved similar cultural milestones, there is yet to be a “smoking gun” that definitively links them. Gorman’s birth parents have not come forward, so it is unknown whether Angelou is or was at any point related to her. Gorman is an adoptee, so Angelou may possibly have been a distant relative or family friend.
A few years ago, Gorman and Angelou appeared to have formed some kind of bond. Gorman composed a poem for Angelou on her passed day and Angelou’s nephew praised Gorman for having paid homage to a woman she’d never met and only admired from afar. While this connection was cemented in spirit, whether or not the two are related still remains a mystery.
Maya Angelou’s Career and Achievements
Maya Angelou was an author, activist, poet, and professor, who is widely regarded to be a cornerstone of the Civil Rights Movement. She wrote dozens of works including seven autobiographies and several books of poetry. Her memoirs, I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings, garnered vast critical success and illuminated a narrative of the African American experience.
During her lifetime, Angelou was also a successful playwright and screenwriter. She was nominated for a Drama Desk Award for her composition of the play Look Away, and in 1972 Angelou released her critically acclaimed screenplay Georgia, Georgia.
Additionally, Angelou was a renowned civil rights activist, having worked with—or alongside—the likes of Martin Luther King, Jr., James Baldwin and Rosa Parks. Angelou was also the second poet ever to read their work at a Presidential Inauguration during Bill Clinton’s first term in office.
In the winter of 1993, Angelou was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom—the nation’s highest civilian honor—for her impactful lifetime contributions to the arts and civil rights movements. Throughout her illustrious career, Angelou embodied the spirit of self-expression and activism in her compelling works and continues to be celebrated as a literary icon.
Amanda Gorman’s Career and Achievements
Amanda Gorman is a vibrant poet, writer, and social justice advocate who has become a force to be reckoned with in the world of poetry. The LA native exploded into the public eye in 2021 when she was tapped to write and perform an original work for the inauguration of President Joe Biden. Her poem, “The Hill We Climb”, was a resounding success, earning her hugely positive feedback from critics and peers alike.
Gorman is also an established author. Her first book of poetry titled The One for Whom Food is Not Enough was released in 2015, with her next book Gorman released in 2018. Gorman also authored the New York Times bestseller, Change Sings: A Children’s Anthem.
Gorman has also made a name for herself through her activism and philanthropy. In her freshman year at Harvard, Gorman created the Institute of the Prologue, a youth-led non-profit dedicated to providing arts education to underserved communities.
In addition to her decades of advocacy and activism, Gorman also boasts several accolades, including being named by TIME magazine as one of the 100 Most Influential People of 2020. In March 2021, Gorman was one of five figures appointed to serve on the American Pavillion at the 2021 Venice Biennale. In 2021, Gorman also earned the title of National Youth Poet Laureate for her contributions to the art of poetry as an outspoken artist and social justice advocate.
The Bond Between Amanda Gorman and Maya Angelou
Despite their obvious commonalities, the bond that Amanda Gorman and the late great Maya Angelou share goes beyond the realm of their respective works. Despite Gorman being born a decade after Angelou’s death, Gorman felt strongly connected to the wordsmithing genius and was adamant in expressing her admiration. On the anniversary of Angelou’s death, Gorman composed a poem titled “The Weeping Summer” and published it online in order to commemorate the literary legend’s untimely death.
The next year, Gorman had the chance to perform for Biden’s inauguration and did so wearing a custom-made ring adorned with a yellow rose—a motif her late idol had worn often. Gorman stated that “It’s a ring of a kind of stature — a one-of-a-kind Maya Angelou kind of stature”. After her performance, Angelou’s nephew shared his admiration for Gorman and her embodiment of Angelou’s unwavering spirit and contributions.
Though Angelou’s family has yet to come forward to announce a possible kinship between Gorman and the late icon, it’s evident through Gorman’s works and performances that both are eternally connected in spirit.
Amanda Gorman’s International Recognition
In the wake of Gorman’s performance at the 2021 Presidential Inauguration, her fame skyrocketed. After her speech, Gorman immediately dropped several appearances on highly rated TV shows like The Tonight Show and Good Morning America. Major publications also featured Gorman on their covers and profiles such as TIME Magazine’s 100 Most Influential Person of 2020, Vanity Fair’s 25th anniversary edition, and The New York Times.
Gorman received tons of awards and recognition from around the world for her compelling work and passionate advocacy. She earned the title of National Youth Poet Laureate, a Covid-19 Hero Award from the Langston Hughes Community, an NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Literary Work by a Debut Author, and The Nickelodeon Kid’s Choice Award for Favorite Change Maker.
In 2021, Gorman was also appointed to serve as an ambassador for the 2021 Venice Biennale. Gorman was one of five representatives chosen to embody a modern outlook of the United States and embody the “wisdom of a younger America”.
Amanda Gorman’s Impact on the World of Poetry
The unique approach that Gorman has to her craft has only added to the legacy of her work as a wordsmith. Each of Gorman’s pieces is unique and delivered with an untamed fervor which has captivated audiences worldwide.
Gorman’s performances often bring together concepts of activism, history, and artistry, thus creating a vibrant sonic experience. She has been extremely vocal in her works about everything from racism and the struggle of Black Americans to the difficulties of motherhood and the power of childhood dreams.
Within the world of poetry and literature, Gorman’s efforts have undoubtedly impacted generations of aspiring wordsmiths and shined a light on the potential of modern activism through art. Gorman’s projects have been pivotal in pushing the boundaries and expectations of the traditional American poet, and in doing so, Gorman has made remarkable progress in capturing and translating the spirit of the current age.
Amanda Gorman’s Impact on the Lives of Young Americans
Amanda Gorman has resonated with individuals of all ages, but she has specifically engaged a powerful fan base amongst younger generations. As the first Youth Poet Laureate and Youth Poetry Ambassador, Gorman has taken into consideration the plight of her young fans.
Gorman’s works bring to light a number of issues which young Americans are facing in the 21st century. From her pieces on racism and economic injustice to her pieces which honor the power of self-expression and creativity, Gorman continues to offer sincere hope and guidance to adolescents still learning the pathways of life.
Gorman’s relatable outlook on the world and her intense passion for equality and opportunity has inspired legions of young Americans to embrace the power of their words and to find the courage to use their voices to make a difference. Gorman’s rousing words have the power to open eyes and to awaken individuals who, like Gorman herself, are ready to rise up and take their rightful place in history.
Amanda Gorman’s Influence on the Black Community
Gorman has become the face of a new movement of Black writers and expressionists. Through her works, Gorman has become an instrument for illustrating the beauty, complexity, and topical relevance of Black culture.
Gorman has consistently shined a light on the pervasive racism that plagues American society and has provided a platform for amplifying the narratives of Black Americans. Her works also provide a reminder to the community that Black living is not limited to the traumas caused by racism and oppression, but also encompasses the beauty of the community’s shared culture and collective resilience.
Gorman has been influential in the lives of many Black Americans, inspiring her peers to utilize their words and voice their thoughts and feelings in order to empower each other and create positive changes within their communities.
Amanda Gorman’s Social Justice Advocacy
In light of Gorman’s newfound fame, she has also taken on an important role as an energizing and leading figure in the world of social justice advocacy. Gorman has continuously engaged in colloquial dialogue with the youth in order to elevate the conversation around social issues such as racism and economic inequality.
In 2021, Gorman’s efforts to empower young people to become active participants in their communities were demonstrated when she joined forces with TeamNB, a non-profit organization which develops opportunities for high school students to engage in athletically-oriented social justice initiatives.
Gorman’s work has also had a stupendous impact on the lives of impoverished and underserved individuals. Gorman is the founder of the Institute of the Prologue, an organization that provides creative outlets for youth from disadvantaged neighborhoods.
Gorman’s partnerships with organizations that focus on bridging the gap between opportunity and underprivileged communities have reverberated around the world. She continues to spread her message of hope and moxie to individuals everywhere who remain determined to make their dreams a reality regardless of their economic backgrounds.
