Born Malcolm Little on May 19, 1925 in Omaha Nebraska; El Hajj Malik El Shabazz better known as the beloved Minister Malcolm X, became one of the most charismatic and enlightened social, political and spiritual leaders of the 20th century, and without a doubt went through one of the most magnificent transformations bestowed upon man by the creator.

Malcolm lived and taught the rule of self-sufficiency, and self-reliance coupled with the philosophy relevant to the “Knowledge of Self” - founded on the principles of precisely who African people truly are, not the debased image created by the American mainstream media.

In an interview, Malcolm was once asked why it was so important for the White man to have a different perspective of the Blackman – in his soulfully candid and eloquent style Malcolm stated the following;

“The focus for the Blackman should never be to change the way that the white man perceives the Blackman, but to change the way the Blackman perceives himself”.

The overriding message articulated here by Brother Malcolm continues to resonate in today’s society. The language between too many Black men that refer to themselves as niggas, dogs, and thugs continues to denigrate the minds of our youth, our people, our communities, and our culture. How we view ourselves is critically important - because it determines how and what we teach our children, our philosophy on life, and the social, political and economic impact that we make on our communities.

One of the fundamental problems that continue to vex and perplex people of African descent on these American shores, and in the world community is unquestionably connected to the lack of “Self Knowledge.” Too many people of African descent have steadfastly adopted the customs, nationality and ways of others, which are in direct contradiction to who they are as a people.

Malcolm further cited that;

"A race of people is like an individual man; until it uses its own talent, takes pride in its own history, expresses its own culture, affirms its own selfhood it can never fulfill itself."

It is imperative that we pay complete reverence to one of the most magnificent human beings of our lifetime. Let us remember his legacy, and let us likewise remember the sacrifices that Malcolm made for the advancement of our collective people. We must not become so superficial, while being completely consumed and mesmerized by American dollarism that we allow his tremendous legacy to go to waste.

So therefore, let us commemorate the life, the lessons, and the philosophy set forth by El Hajj Malik El Shabazz – the Honorable Minister Malcolm X, and his diligent work toward the resurrection of the Blackman, woman, and child. "The Struggle continues."