NAACP’s Post

I am deeply saddened by the loss of a remarkable poet whose words ignited hope, inspired action, and championed the causes of Black upliftment, gender equality, and feminist ideologies. Her work was not merely poetry but a beacon of resilience and empowerment, reminding us of the strength found in community and the necessity of justice for all. She was a voice for the voiceless, a storyteller of our struggles and triumphs, and an unwavering advocate for equity and inclusion. Through her artistry, she painted vivid portraits of liberation and love, courageously confronting the barriers that sought to divide us. Her legacy will forever resonate in the hearts of those she touched, and her impact will continue to inspire generations to come. I extend my heartfelt condolences to her family, friends, and all who cherished her. May her soul rest in power, and may we honor her memory by carrying forward the values she so passionately lived for.

Being fair-skinned, I caught a lot of slack in Middle School and HS for not being “real black,” “black-black, or “us-black.” My mother introduced me to Nikki Giovanni young and through her writings I found a sense of belonging, love, and appreciation for being unapologetically Black. Like her poetry our people, culture, and experience makes us unique and powerful. I ALWAYS wanted to be one of her students in her classroom but her lessons supercede academic halls. A “Thug Life” ambassador, advocate for social justice, one of America’s greatest poets, life long learner, beacon of knowledge, enlightenment, encouragement, and inspiration. Her legacy is cemented and we will keep building our futures, brick by brick. I’m saddened by her loss but #restinpower Nikki Giovanni. 💕

Nikki Giovanni’s legacy isn’t just in the words she penned but in the courage she gave others to find their own voice. Her work reminds us that poetry isn’t just art—it’s a call to action, a mirror for society, and a balm for the human spirit. As we remember her, let’s commit to carrying forward her vision of truth, justice, and boundless creativity. Her passing marks the end of an era, but her influence will ripple through generations. Rest in power, Nikki Giovanni.

She lives on in hearts and minds. I will forever remember her. I still have the letter she wrote me after coming to my house for dinner with my husband and me. It was a fun and wonderful evening. She told the truth at a time and whenever it needed to be heard. She was also vert thoughtful and gracious. R.I.P.

I was a saddened to learn about the loss of this beautiful gem. I was blessed to sit in her presence and hear her speak. I felt such pride as a young girl hearing and seeing one of the African-American heroes I read about in my textbooks standing strong and proud, bringing her words to life for me. She was born in my hometown, Knoxville, TN, and went to my mother's high school Alma Mater. Her words, her passion, her presence, her strength will be missed. Rest in Power, Queen.

No words, Maya Angelo, Toni Morrison and now Nikki Giovanni. The tall trees of my formative reading years are falling. Thank you for your presence in our lives and your amazing grace.

She gave us the wings to soar...her message lifted and empowered..while grounding us in ourselves and help us find our voice. She will live on, and we must continue her legacy. 💕 🕊️

This cause me to pause because she has been a mentor to me. I actually got a chance to speak with her when I got my First book published I was using her poem Ego Tripping and through that process she called me It was great to hear from her about giving permission. The words “ I can fly like a bird in the sky “ gave me the ideas of limitless possibilities in life. It said to me Soar to your highest heights.

My sincere and heartfelt condolences! Rest In Power Nikki Giovanni! 🙏🏽🕊️❤️

Rest in peace to one of the greats!