I’ve been having a discussion with friends about Malcolm X against the backdrop of Obama’s inauguration.
We’ve been talking about the degree to which MLK is in the forefront of people’s minds while Malcolm X really hasn’t been mentioned at all.
On a topical level, it makes a lot of sense.
MLK represented the same spirit of hope and optimism that Obama speaks to.
MLK’s figurative and literal shadow has been cast on the physical monuments and memorials of the capital.
MLK’s narrative of the promised land seeing the mountain top are powerful plot structures for Obama’s road to the presidency.
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I do think it’s interesting and important to think about the accomplishments of Malcolm X during this historical moment – and possibly why Malcolm X really isn’t part of the national dialogue.
What is Malcolm X’s place in the historical conditions that have brought us to realizing America’s first black president?
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Here he is in his own words:
[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ic1fGc0GiRE&hl=en&fs=1]
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Just as impressive and charismatic as King, vastly different message–though it changed after he broke with Elijah Muhammad. Even as a white person, I find his arguments compelling–the bit about the slave names is extremely sharp. I am in favor of integration, but this message resonates. And, oh my, are those white men WHITE.
Thanks for posting–fascinating clip.