The United States Postal Service will continue its Black Heritage Stamp stamps in 2021, honoring legendary playwright August Wilson with the 44th of its series.

For Warachal Faison, the President of APS affiliate ESPER (Ebony Society of Philatelic Events and Reflections) the news was a pleasant surprise:

"Award-winning playwright August Wilson assembled multiple plays that celebrated and raised awareness about the African-American experience.

He and his body of work remain a giant landmark not only in the history of the  African-American experience but also of American literature as well as of Broadway theater. 

He is such an outstanding figure to be honored in the Black Heritage Series--well done USPS!"

Here is the announcement from the USPS:

Award-winning playwright August Wilson is receiving one of the nation’s highest honors when he takes center stage on a Forever stamp.

The stamp will be dedicated Jan. 28 on the Postal Service Facebook and Twitter pages. 

One of America’s greatest playwrights, Wilson is hailed as a trailblazer for helping to bring nonmusical African American drama to the forefront of American theater.

Wilson collected innumerable accolades for his work, including seven New York Drama Critics’ Circle Awards; a Tony Award, for 1987’s “Fences”; and two Pulitzer Prizes, for “Fences” and 1990’s “The Piano Lesson.”

The USPS has more information on its website.

Customers may preorder and purchase stamps and other philatelic products through the Postal Store, by calling 800-STAMP24 (800-782-6724), by mail through USA Philatelic, or at Post Office locations nationwide.