The twenty-third chapter of I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings sees Maya Angelou recalling her eighth grade graduation ceremony. While this event is meant to be joyous, things take a turn for the worst when Mr. Edward Donleavy, a sort of school superintendent, gives an absolutely deflating speech. Fortunately, valedictorian Henry Reed saves the day by discarding his speech in favor of a more unconventional presentation.
Henry Reed leads the crowd in singing The Negro National Anthem.
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