After clicking on her doodle image on the Google homepage, users were taken to a video-reading of her poem “Still I Rise”, featuring Dr. Angelou herself alongside several popular figures who are said to have been inspired by her and aspire to live by her legacy today, including Oprah Winfrey, Alicia Keys, Laverne Cox, Martina McBride, America Ferrera and Dr. Angelou’s son Guy Johnson.

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In a statement, Google praised Dr. Angelou, who died at the age of 86, as someone who had touched the lives of millions around the globe through her teachings, writings, voice and actions. "Born Marguerite Annie Johnson in 1928, her incredible story began with tragedy when a sexual assault at the age of seven rendered her mute for five years. During those years, however, books and poetry became her solace and constant companions, eventually helping her find her voice again to embark upon an intellectual and creative journey that defies description."

Throughout her life, Dr. Angelou enjoyed many roles, including San Francisco's first female and black streetcar conductor, professional cabaret singer and dancer, journalist, civil rights activist and finally a prominent author following the success of her first book I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings in 1969.

In addition to becoming the first poet in three decades to make a recitation at a United States presidential inauguration, she was also the recipient of many awards, public accolades and over 50 honorary degrees. (kes)

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