Langston Hughes

Langston Hughes is a writer that is known for his work during the Harlem Renaissance. One of his poem's was called I Too, Sing America.

I, too, sing America.
I am the darker brother.
They send me to
eat
in the kitchen
When company comes,
But I laugh,
And eat
well,
And grow strong.
Tomorrow,
I'll be at the table
When
company
comes.
Nobody'll dare
Say to me,
"Eat in the
kitchen,"
Then.
Besides,
They'll see how beautiful I am
And be
ashamed--
I, too, am America.

In this poem, Langston Hughes is talking about being black in America and how even though he is black, he still loves his country and is very much a part of it. He discusses how society continues to put him down, but how he is still getting stronger. He also says that he doesn't let the words of others discourage him anymore and that he sees a good future for African Americans. Not only did this poem reflect the thoughts and beliefs of many of the African Americans involved in the Harlem Renaissance; it also gave them hope for the future and strength to continue their uphill battle for equality and freedom.