The third annual Malcolm X event not only commemorated his life, but also the legacy he left behind.
About 30 people attended the event co-sponsored by For Members Only’s Political Action Committee, the Living Wage Campaign, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority and the African American Freshmen Activities Board. The performances and programming were aimed at demonstrating Malcolm X’s legacy.
“Malcolm X is an interesting figure because he has had more influence after his death than during his life,” said professor Martha Biondi during the keynote discussion. “The immediate first generation that read [Malcolm X’s autobiography] transformed the education system, making them into the modern multicultures they are today.”
Speakers provided the background for how Malcolm X changed the world. Performances by a cappella group Soul 4 Real and the African American Theatre ensemble attempted to embody Malcolm X’s legacy artistically with songs about power and struggle.
“I wouldn’t be at Northwestern right now if not for Malcolm X,” said Soul 4 Real performer and Weinberg sophomore Ericka Brown. “He affected my schooling and ultimately my whole life.”
Others contrasted Malcolm X’s struggles with modern struggles we face today, even at Northwestern. Weinberg senior and Living Wage Campaign director Adam Yalowitz spoke about the Living Wage Campaign at Northwestern.
Yalowitz believed Malcolm X’s persistence during his struggle was exactly what the Living Wage Campaign required. He quoted Frederick Douglass, stating “there is no success without struggle.”
Overall, students felt the event was a success and a great end to Black History Month.
“I think it was important to look into his life for Black history Month,” said SESP junior Robert Ellis. “Even though many view Malcolm X as radical and violent, there are aspects of him that have made a huge impact today.”