R.I.P.. Nikki Giovanni, a trailblazing poet, writer, professor, and activist whose words sparked movements and inspired generations. Giovanni died at the age of 81 following her third cancer diagnosis. She leaves behind a legacy as vast as her talent and as deep as her love for Black people, culture, and humanity.

From her powerful poetry to her revolutionary teaching, whether addressing the fight for racial justice or the beauty of Blackness, her words moved us to action and reminded us to cherish life.

Ms. Giovanni’s passing is a profound loss, but her words will live on, echoing in the hearts of those who fight for freedom. May the words she wrote in The Collected Poetry, 1968-1998 guide her spirit: “I hope i die
warmed by the life that i tried to live.”