Maya Angelou has been celebrated for her celebrated writing of books, poetry, and other works. Her legacy, however, extends far beyond literature as she was also a fixture in a variety of other fields. She was a passionate advocate for civil rights and women’s rights, a highly visible and vocal activist, and a sought-after speaker, among other roles.
First and foremost, Angelou was an activist. She was a strong supporter of civil rights, racial justice and women’s rights, which she often talked and wrote about. For example, she wrote an essay in 1967 that was widely circulated, denouncing sexism and racism. She also spoke out against gender-based violence and was an early advocate of LGBT rights. She also joined forces with African American figures such as Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X.
Angelou was also a celebrated speaker. She often gave lectures and keynote speeches around the world, ranging from university classrooms to oval offices. She frequently incorporated her writing into her speeches, and her strong oratory skills and inspiring words have inspired countless people. She was also the recipient of numerous awards and honorary degrees for her work.
Next, Angelou was an actor and filmmaker. She starred in several documentaries and TV series, as well as appearing in movies such as 1977’s Georgia, Georgia. She also penned the screenplay for the 1972 film Georgia, Georgia. In addition, Angelou wrote numerous plays, including her own production of Cabaret for Freedom in 1976. She also directed two feature-length films.
Angelou also made a successful transition into academia. She taught at numerous colleges, including Wake Forest University and the University of Normal. She was also a professor of American Studies at Yale and Cuyahoga Community College in Cleveland. Later in her career, she became a professor of American studies at the University of Mexico.
What’s more, Angelou was a vocal member of the artistic world. She released several spoken-word albums and wrote a number of songs, including her Grammy-nominated single, “I Want to Be Ready.” She also performed in concerts and wrote music for film and television. Her creative side also extended to her ventures into visual arts, including creating sculptures and jewelry.
Lastly, Angelou was a mentor to many. Over the years she worked with dozens of emerging writers and students, offering advice and motivation as they honed their craft. She was also a mentor for young feminists, encouraging them to speak out and actively fight for gender equality. She used her influential platform to better the public discourse and spread awareness about social issues.
Her Impact Reaches Beyond Activism
In addition to her activism, Maya Angelou made notable contributions in a variety of other fields. As a celebrated speaker, Angelou delivered inspiring speeches in a variety of settings. She also a starred in a number of movies and directed two feature-length films. As an academic, Angelou was an esteemed professor in American Studies at several universities. She also wrote several plays and had a notable career in the music industry. As a mentor, Angelou worked with many young writers and feminists, offering them advice and motivation.
Her Social and Political Advocacy
Maya Angelou was a passionate social and political advocate. She was a keen supporter of civil rights, racial justice and women’s rights, often imparting her views and experiences through her writing. She was an early advocate of LGBT rights and publicly joined forces with Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcom X. Angelou also spoke out against gender-based violence and was a strong support of the Black Lives Matter movement.
Her Writing, Music and Other Works
In addition to her activism, Angelou was a celebrated writer, acclaimed for her books and poetry. She wrote numerous essays, plays and screenplay, and also released several spoken-word albums. Her creative side extended to her ventures into visual arts, including sculptures and jewelry, and she was a Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter. Angelou also loved to perform in concerts and traveled the world, giving lectures and keynote speeches.
Her Legacy of Mentorship
Maya Angelou was a dedicated mentor to many. She encouraged young writers in their craft, offering them advice and motivation. For young feminists, Angelou was a beacon of light, showing them how to speak out and actively fight for gender equality. She used her influential platform to better the public discourse and spread awareness about social issues.
Her Global Reach
Maya Angelou’s work received global attention and she was highly respected around the world. She had deep and meaningful relationships with iconic leaders and traveled extensively. She visited many countries and was a sought-after speaker. Her words have inspired countless individuals and her books, plays and songs have been translated into many languages.
