We've heard some incredible, inspiring Inauguration speeches today (including that of our 46th President Joe Biden) but the words of the country's first National Youth Poet Laureate Amanda Gorman somehow hit all of us differently. At just 22 years old, Gorman became the youngest poet to ever perform at a presidential inauguration. Her powerful poem on the healing power of unity not only commanded national attention, but captured the hearts of listeners across the political divide. Her words, wise and strong, brave and true, managed to truly express the ethos of this moment.
Requested to perform by First Lady Jill Biden, Gorman started to write the poem, entitled "The Hill We Climb," following the attack on the U.S. Capitol on January 6. In performing today, she joins the likes of other poets who have addressed the nation at Inauguration ceremonies, including Maya Angelou, Robert frost, Elizabeth Alexander and Richard Blanco (the last two of whom she spoke with before performing for advice).
Her powerful poem has clearly resonated with the world. Just ask Twitter:
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So... Amanda Gorman for president 2028? (PSA: You can buy her book here.)
Megan DiTrolio
Editor, Features and Special Projects
Megan DiTrolio is the editor of features and special projects at Marie Claire, where she oversees all career coverage and writes and edits stories on women’s issues, politics, cultural trends, and more.
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