A century after his assassination, Malcolm X’s legacy remains a powerful force in the ongoing struggle for racial justice, identity, and liberation. Born Malcolm Little in 1925, and later adopting the name El-Hajj Malik El-Shabazz, Malcolm X transformed from a troubled youth into one of the most influential voices in American and global Black consciousness.
His bold critique of white supremacy, his call for Black self-determination, and his unapologetic advocacy for human rights challenged the mainstream civil rights movement and forced the world to confront the depth of systemic racism. Unlike more moderate figures of his time, Malcolm X urged Black people to defend themselves “by any means necessary,” and his words still resonate in modern movements like Black Lives Matter.
In the 100 years since his passing, Malcolm X’s teachings have transcended time, inspiring generations of activists, scholars, and ordinary citizens across the globe. His life—marked by radical change, from Nation of Islam spokesperson to global human rights advocate—embodies the enduring struggle for justice, dignity, and truth.
Malcolm X’s centennial is not just a commemoration of a revolutionary life lost, but a reminder that the fight he led is far from over. His vision for global Black unity, self-respect, and resistance lives on, lighting the path for future generations to walk with purpose and pride.
