I selected Phillis Wheatley to celebrate black history month and also women’s month at the same time but also because I wanted to show an important person who made history in Boston and to remember them.

I personally relate to Phillis’ story because she is a Black woman. She also learned to read and write, and people encouraged her to write poetry when they saw her talent. However, for me, it was art. I learned how to draw and acquire new skills, and when people saw my skills, they encouraged me to use them.

She was the first African-American author to publish a book of poetry in Boston. At a young age, she was enslaved and brought to Boston by the Wheatley family. However, she learned to read and write, and her family encouraged her to write poetry when they recognized her talent.”

*printed to order