Sports

Stars Pay Tribute to Prolific Poet & Civil Rights Activist Maya Angelou

Published on April 5, 2018

“Let’s remember what she so beautifully taught us,” writes Storm Reid

Today, April 4, 2018, would have been the late Maya Angelou’s 90th birthday. The American poet, essayist, and singer is also remembered as an important civil rights activist. Her creativity and passion lives on, and her words are still just as relevant to the big issues facing the world today which is why so many people – including some of our fave stars – made sure to honor her birthday across social media.

“A Wrinkle In Time” actress Storm Reid posted a photo of her proudly rocking a message tee inspired by Maya Angelou.

“I am every woman. I am a PHENOMENAL woman. Maya Angelou, the original Phenomenal Woman, would’ve been 90 years-old today,” the star posted with her pic. “Not only was she an iconic poet and author, she also was a civil rights leader. In this urgent moment of social activism, let’s remember what she so beautifully taught us: phenomenal black women will be seen and heard, and we will always rise to the occasion. #wewillrise @phenomenal.ly HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO THE OG QUEEN B!”

“Black-ish” actress Marsai Martin showed off a”Phenomenal Woman” t-shirt of her own, and shared her own motivational message in Maya Angelou’s memory.

“Maya Angelou/ an innovator/ a poet/ a truth teller/ an activist/ a phenomenal woman ? Happy Birthday,” Yara Shahidi posted along with a tribute photo.

Chloe x Halle shared a throwback video of Chloe reciting Maya Angelou’s words back in elementary school – and shared just how much she influenced them as artists.

And finally, Alicia Keys posted an incredible tribute video, which blends her reciting “I Rise” in between Maya Angelou’s own words.