Phillis Wheatley “In every human breast, God has implanted a principle, which we call love of freedom.” Enslaved woman and first published African American poet in the U.S. (1773). Wheatley’s words declare freedom as a human instinct planted in every person.
John Henrik Clarke “History is not everything, but it is a starting point.” Pan-African historian and educator who pushed for inclusion of African heritage in world history. Clarke reminds us that history is the starting point for knowing who we are.
Benjamin “Pap” Singleton “We are organizing a colony… that our children may rise in the scale of manhood and respect.” Former enslaved man turned leader of the Exodusters who led Black migration west post-slavery. Singleton’s words speak to land, migration, and building a future for the next generation.
General Order No. 3 “The people of Texas are informed that, in accordance with a proclamation from the Executive of the United States, all slaves are free.” Read aloud in Galveston, TX on June 19, 1865 — officially freeing the last enslaved Black Americans. These words mark freedom announced in Texas and a turning point […]
Horace Pippin “Pictures just come to my mind, and I tell my heart to go ahead.” Self-taught painter and WWI veteran whose artwork depicted Black life and social themes. Pippin’s quote shows art as memory, instinct, and heart moving together.
George Washington Carver “Start where you are, with what you have. Make something of it and never be satisfied.” Agricultural scientist and inventor who promoted sustainable farming and crop rotation. Carver’s words remind us to begin with what we have and keep reaching higher.
Paul Laurence Dunbar “We wear the mask that grins and lies, it hides our cheeks and shades our eyes.” One of the first major Black poets in U.S. history, known for his powerful dialect verse. Dunbar gives language to the hidden pain Black people often carried behind a public face.
Bessie Coleman “I refused to take no for an answer.” First African American and Native American female pilot; broke barriers in aviation. Coleman’s quote reflects the courage to chase a dream past every closed door. Wear the history: Bessie Coleman — from the Black Knowledge Wear collection.
Lewis Latimer “Like the light of the sun, let the light of your intellect and character shine.” Inventor and draftsman who helped develop the telephone and improved electric lighting. Latimer’s words connect invention with light, progress, and service to everyday people.
Frances Ellen Watkins Harper “We are all bound up together in one great bundle of humanity.” Abolitionist, poet, and women’s rights activist; spoke and wrote on justice for all. Harper reminds us that justice is connected, and humanity rises or suffers together.