As we celebrate Black History Month, Cheddar is highlighting prominent Black Americans who are carving their own historic paths and trailblazing in their industries. While Black History Month has become synonymous with reflecting on past achievements of Black Americans, it is important that we acknowledge today's historic feats as they happen.
Amanda Gorman was introduced to the world on January 20, 2021, when the young poet phenom performed at President Joe Biden's inauguration. It would be a historic moment as she became the youngest person to perform at a presidential inauguration, but she's no stranger to carving her own path. In 2017, Gorman became the first person to be named National Youth Poet Laureate.
Just days before Gorman recited her original poem The Hill We Climb on the steps of the U.S. Capitol, supporters of former President Donald Trump stormed the building as they sought to overturn the results of the election. It was that deadly insurrection that might have stripped the world of the chance of meeting Gorman. In a January New York Times op-ed, Gorman said she had concerns about putting herself out there for the world to see — essentially putting a target on her back.
"I didn't know then that I'd become famous, but I did know at the inauguration, I was going to become highly visible — which is a very dangerous thing to be in America, especially if you're Black and outspoken and have no Secret Service," Gorman said.
The fear of violence, or even death, was very real for the young poet, particularly as the country remained on edge following the Capitol attack. In her opinion piece, Gorman noted that friends, in a not-so-joking tone, suggested she buy a bulletproof vest ahead of the ceremony.
Violence wasn't the only concern for Gorman. She also said she felt pressure to execute — flawlessly. The thought of letting her community down and not performing her poem as intended added another layer of doubt and nearly caused her to back out. The raging pandemic presented another obstacle for Gorman who had to consider health over history.
But against all of those odds, she stood tall, recited the poem, and has since become a household name. The entire ordeal was reminiscent of the message she attempted to convey in her poem: embrace your fears, lean into them and continue moving in your purpose.
"And yes, I still am terrified every day. Yet fear can be love trying its best in the dark. So do not fear your fear. Own it. Free it. This isn't a liberation that I or anyone can give you — it's a power you must look for, learn, love, lead and locate yourself," Gorman said.
