Cordelia Ray

Henrietta Cordelia Ray (August 30, 1852 – January 5, 1916) was an African American poet and teacher.

[4] Ray's ode "Lincoln" was read at the unveiling of the Emancipation Memorial in Washington, D.C. in April 1876.

To those fair isles where crimson sunsets burn,We send a backward glance to gaze on thee,Brave Toussaint!

thou was surely born to beA hero; thy proud spirit could but spurnEach outrage on the race.

and weWho share the zeal that would make all men free,Must e’en with pride unto thy life-work turn.Soul-dignity was thine and purest aim;And ah!