Maya Angelou’s life experiences, including her childhood trauma and racial discrimination, profoundly influenced her perspectives on race. She faced systemic racism growing up in the segregated South, which shaped her belief in the resilience of the Black community. Her various roles as a writer, activist, and performer revealed her commitment to social justice, as reflected in her works like "I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings." Angelou’s advocacy highlighted the importance of self-identity and empowerment within the context of the ongoing struggles against racial oppression.