St. Clair College hosted the event 'Malcolm X and the Struggle for Justice and Brotherhood,' featuring esteemed historian, journalist, writer, and activist, Abdur-Rahman Muhammad. The session delved deep into the life and legacy of the iconic civil rights leader, Malcolm X (El-Hajj Malik El-Shabazz), offering attendees a profound insight into his journey and the ongoing fight for racial justice.
Muhammad's presentation was a rich tapestry of Malcolm X's life, highlighting the triumphs and tribulations that defined his legacy. From his upbringing and religious beliefs to his pivotal role within the black community and his enduring battle against systemic racism, Muhammad painted a vivid portrait of Malcolm X's enduring influence.
Muhammad's dedication to preserving Malcolm X's legacy is evident in his work, including the acclaimed Netflix series, 'Who Killed Malcolm X.' The 2020 documentary miniseries follows the work of Muhammad, who has dedicated over 30 years to investigating the assassination of Malcolm X. Decades after Malcolm X's assassination, Muhammad continues to champion the quest for truth and justice surrounding his death, guiding audiences through a nuanced exploration of the circumstances surrounding the tragic event.
During his address, Muhammad emphasized the societal climate during Malcolm X's era, illustrating how pervasive racism deeply impacted personal beliefs and cultural norms. He praised Canada as a beacon of refuge for black individuals during a dark period of discrimination within the United States, highlighting the importance of global solidarity in the fight against racism.
"We are human beings, we come from the same source, and we all deserve respect, honour, and security from harm," Muhammad said.
Those words were the essence of his message. He expressed optimism about the progress towards racial equality while acknowledging the significant work that remains to be done.
According to Muhammad, brotherhood stands as a cornerstone in the battle against racism.
"It does not matter what your worldview is; you can't have justice without brotherhood. We must do unto others as we would want them to do unto us. We should live by those words." Muhammad urged.
Reflecting on the historical struggles faced by the black community, Muhammad lamented the enduring lack of true brotherhood and inclusion. However, he remained hopeful that continued efforts towards education and racial sensitization would pave the way for a brighter, more equitable future.
The session concluded on a poignant note, with audience members engaging in insightful discussions and reflecting on the significance of understanding black history, one activists' story at a time. Muhammad's profound insights left a lasting impact, inspiring attendees to continue the ongoing pursuit of justice and equality.
Story written by Jahphia Appleby
