Phillis Wheatley

On Being Brought from Africa to America (1773)

Twas mercy brought me from my Pagan land,
Taught my benighted soul to understand
Thatt there's a God, that there's a Saviour too:
Once I redemption neigher sought nor knew.
Some view our sable race with scornful eye,
"Their colour is a diabolic die."
Remember, Christians, Negros, black as Cain,
May be refin'd and join the'angelic train.

- Phillis Wheatley