* His political and social activism: McKay's work often addressed issues of race, class, and colonialism, which may have made him unpopular with some institutions.
* His early career in Harlem Renaissance: While a pivotal figure in this movement, he was sometimes seen as a "contrarian" figure.
* The limited recognition of Black writers during that era: Overall, there were fewer opportunities for Black writers to be recognized for their work compared to their white counterparts.
However, McKay did receive some recognition during his life:
* His novel "Home to Harlem" was a commercial success: Published in 1928, it was a significant literary achievement and contributed to his wider recognition.
* He was a member of the League of American Writers: This organization, founded in 1935, promoted progressive literature and included notable writers such as Langston Hughes and John Dos Passos.
* He was a visiting professor at several universities: This included teaching positions at the University of Michigan, the University of Rochester, and the University of Wisconsin.
While McKay didn't receive major awards, his literary legacy continued to grow after his death in 1948. He is now widely recognized as one of the most important figures of the Harlem Renaissance and his work continues to inspire and resonate with readers today.
Some posthumous awards and recognition include:
* The Claude McKay Literary Award: Established in 1971, it is awarded annually by the Caribbean American Writers League.
* The Claude McKay Award: Given by the Black Writer's Conference, a non-profit organization that promotes the literary works of Black writers.
* Numerous articles, essays, and academic studies: His work has been the subject of extensive research and continues to be analyzed and interpreted by literary scholars.
While McKay may not have received widespread recognition in his lifetime, his significant contributions to literature and his legacy as a groundbreaking voice for social justice continue to be celebrated and studied today.