Today is the anniversary of the birth of the Most Honorable Malcolm X. Brother Malcolm was not one of those heroes who was without blemish and was “out of touch” with the people. He had a hard life, sold drugs, did time… He had a past and that is part of what made him such an amazing leader. He knew about real life. He had experienced it first hand. He knew about injustices, struggle, poverty… 

Malcolm X is not given the proper praise as some other black leaders are or were. And that is because his message was stronger. He was more militant. More radical. I love Malcolm X for many of the same reasons I love other black leaders. He is powerful, magnetic, intelligent, witty, strong, real and he has the power to MOVE YOU.

Be peaceful, be courteous, obey the law, respect everyone; but if someone puts his hand on you, send him to the cemetery.

Malcolm X, Malcolm X Speaks, 1965

Even though he is not physically with us, this brother has had a major impact on my growth, my consciousness and with the growth and enlightenment of countless others. This is before and after his physical death. I have sincere love, respect and admiration for this man.

Funny story: My son likes for me to read him this book. A few days ago, he went into the bedroom and got the book. He told me, “I’m going to be Malcolm X.” After a little while he said to me, “…He should be with us!”

Malcolm X is one of my heroes. I look up to him very much. His words, his power… He will always be remembered for the great deeds he has done for our people.

He doesn’t get big memorials and national holidays. He doesn’t get the recognition he so deserves. None of our true leaders do. He was too much of a field negro to be given recognition… Instead, he gets dilapidated streets in his name.

But for those of us who are awake, we know his greatness. We remember and teach others of his greatness.

Peace, Love and Elevation.