East St. Louis celebrates Malcolm X’s birthday
The East St. Louis community is celebrating the late Malcolm X’s birthday today.
Everyone is welcome to participate in the event, from 1:30 p.m.-2:25 p.m, via the Gordon Bush Alternative Center Google meet.
To join by phone. call 1-678-619-0830, PIN: 681 606 616#
Father Joseph Brown, professor of African-American studies at Southern Illinois University Carbondale, is the keynote speaker.
The East St. Louis Board of Education established Malcolm X’s birthday, May 19, as a district holiday. in 1977.
Homer Randolph, a board member and community activist, led this endeavor, a press release from community member Curtis Paradise said. At that time, Leroy Ducksworth was superintendent of schools.
Former superintendent of East St. Louis District 189, Lillian Parks, initiated the event in the schools and churches.
Paradise said District 189 may be the first school district in the nation to honor Malcolm X with a holiday.
“Malcolm X speeches mesmerized audiences. He was uncompromising and dedicated to the improvement of Black people without regard for his personal safety. Malcolm X knew separate was not equal. He came on the scene to fight for social justice by any any means necessary,” Paradise said.
The committee organizing this year’s event includes Paradise, who is the chairperson, plus chairperson, plus Parks, Dr. Eugene Redmond, Darlene Roy, Jaye Willis, Alvin Parks Jr. and Barry Malloy.
This story was originally published May 19, 2022 at 9:39 AM.
