Harvard grad's inspiring spoken-word poem goes viral
| Cambridge, Mass.
Social media is buzzing over a Harvard graduate's poetic commencement speech, which has garnered millions of views and the attention of celebrities.
Donovan Livingston, who received his master's degree in education, addressed his classmates Wednesday with a five-minute spoken-word poem "Lift Off" in which he outlines the historic obstacles that have prevented African-Americans from getting an education.
The speech begins with a quote by education reformer Horace Mann ...
聽鈥淓ducation then, beyond all other devices of human origin,
Is a great equalizer of the conditions of men.鈥� 鈥� Horace Mann, 1848
Livingston also聽聽references influential African-Americans including poet Langston Hughes and abolitionist Harriet Tubman.
and a聽video of Livingston's speech聽on Facebook, saying it was "One of the most powerful, heartfelt student speeches you will ever hear!"
More than 8 million have viewed the video, including superstar Justin Timberlake, who shared it on Facebook, adding the caption: "You don't feel inspired?? Here you go."
