"When day comes we ask ourselves, where can we find light in this never-ending shade?" Amanda Gorman posed this question at the beginning of her attention grabbing poem at this week's inauguration. All eyes were on her breathtaking performance and sparked a lot of media coverage even after the inauguration. I'm going to tell you a little bit more about this amazing poet and the great work she has done.
This election has been known to be historic in more ways than one. Amanda Gorman was no exception to the trend. She is not only the youngest poet laureate ever but happens to be a young black woman as well. Gorman is only 22 years old! This is an incredible accomplishment alone without even hearing her speak. Amanda Gorman provided so much representation for young people by showing it is possible to use your voice in big ways. Children aren't the only ones inspired by her, but many adults commend her for such a large honor at a young age. I hope this sets a precedent for the next four years that young people in this country will be encouraged to speak up and will be heard.
Being the youngest poet laureate is not her first big accomplishment she has achieved. Gorman is a recent Harvard graduate with a degree in sociology. She received many accolades in her time there as well. Gorman is a very successful student but has experienced adversity along the way. You would probably never guess this beautifully spoken poet would have a speech impediment right? Well, she actually does and has expressed her ongoing struggle with pronouncing the letter "R." She also has an auditory processing disorder due to an ear infection as a baby which contributed to the speech impediment. Gorman has also received criticism in the classroom for being too outspoken and strong. She attests this to her being a predominantly white college as a successful young black woman. With all these obstacles Amanda Gorman handles herself with such grace.
Amanda's success doesn't stop here, she has a bright future ahead of her as well. She has political aspirations herself and wants to run for president in the future. It would be incredible to see the woman who was the youngest poet laureate at the inauguration of the first woman of color vice president become president herself. From her speech it's clear to see she has many passions and dreams so I think the White House is the perfect fit for her!
There's so much more to this amazing young woman so I'm sure there will be more to read about Amanda Gorman in wink within the next few weeks. If you haven't watched her performance yet I highly suggest you give it a listen.