History of Malcolm X in Timeline
Malcolm X was an African American Muslim minister and human rights activist who gained prominence during the civil rights movement. As a spokesman for the Nation of Islam, he advocated for Black empowerment and the spread of Islam among African Americans. Despite accusations of promoting violence, making him a controversial figure, Malcolm X is celebrated by many within the African American and Muslim communities for his commitment to racial justice. He was assassinated in 1965.
May 19, 1925: Birth of Malcolm X
Malcolm X was born Malcolm Little on May 19, 1925.
1926: Malcolm X's Family Relocates to Milwaukee
Due to threats from the Ku Klux Klan, Malcolm X's family moved to Milwaukee in 1926.
1929: Malcolm X's Family Home Burned Down
The Black Legion, a white supremacist group, burned down Malcolm X's family home in Lansing, Michigan in 1929.
1937: Louise Little's Relationship Ends
A man Louise Little was dating and considering marrying left her life in 1937 when she became pregnant with his child.
1938: Louise Little's Nervous Breakdown
Louise Little suffered a nervous breakdown and was committed to Kalamazoo State Hospital in 1938, leading to her children being placed in foster care.
1941: Malcolm X Drops Out of High School
Malcolm X dropped out of high school in 1941 after a white teacher discouraged his aspirations of becoming a lawyer.
1943: Malcolm X Moves to Harlem and Engages in Criminal Activities
Malcolm X moved to Harlem in 1943 and became involved in various criminal activities, including drug dealing and robbery.
1945: Malcolm X's Criminal Activities in Boston
Malcolm X returned to Boston in late 1945 and committed a series of burglaries.
1946: Malcolm X Sentenced to Prison
Malcolm X was sentenced to 8-10 years in prison for larceny and burglary in 1946.
1946: Malcolm X's Arrest and Imprisonment
Malcolm X was arrested in 1946 for his involvement in burglaries and sentenced to prison.
1948: Malcolm X Introduced to the Nation of Islam
Malcolm X's siblings wrote to him about the Nation of Islam in 1948, sparking his initial interest in the organization.
1948: Malcolm X Joins the Nation of Islam
Malcolm X began corresponding with Elijah Muhammad, the leader of the Nation of Islam, and formally joined the organization in late 1948.
1950: Malcolm X Adopts His Name
In 1950, while imprisoned, Malcolm X began using "X" to replace his last name, symbolizing the loss of his true African family name due to slavery. He adopted this practice under the guidance of Elijah Muhammad, leader of the Nation of Islam, who instructed followers to abandon their slave names.
August 1952: Release From Prison and Visit to Elijah Muhammad
After his release from prison in August 1952, Malcolm X traveled to Chicago to meet Elijah Muhammad, leader of the Nation of Islam. This visit marked the beginning of his deeper involvement with the organization.
1952: Malcolm X Begins Public Speaking
Malcolm X began giving speeches and interviews in 1952, sharing his philosophy and the teachings of the Nation of Islam.
1952: Malcolm X Released from Prison and Joins Nation of Islam
Malcolm X was paroled in 1952 and quickly rose to prominence within the Nation of Islam.
1952: Joining the Nation of Islam
Malcolm X's life took a significant turn in 1952 when he embraced the teachings of the Nation of Islam, a decision that profoundly shaped his worldview and activism.
June 1953: Appointment as Assistant Minister in Detroit
In June 1953, Malcolm X was appointed as the assistant minister at Temple Number One in Detroit, a significant promotion within the Nation of Islam, reflecting his growing influence and dedication.
1953: FBI Surveillance Begins
In 1953, the FBI shifted its focus from Malcolm X's perceived communist affiliations to his rising influence within the Nation of Islam, placing him under surveillance.
March 1954: Expansion of Temple Number 12 in Philadelphia
Malcolm X spearheaded the expansion of Temple Number 12 in Philadelphia in March 1954, further solidifying his role as a prominent leader within the Nation of Islam and demonstrating his commitment to its growth.
1955: Continued Recruitment and Temple Establishments
Throughout 1955, Malcolm X remained a driving force in expanding the Nation of Islam, establishing new temples in Springfield, Massachusetts; Hartford, Connecticut; and Atlanta, leading to a significant increase in membership.
1955: Meeting Betty Sanders
Malcolm X first met Betty Sanders in 1955, after one of his lectures. This encounter marked the beginning of their courtship, which developed within the social settings of the Nation of Islam.
1956: Malcolm X Learns About the Khan Younis Massacre
During his 1964 visit to Gaza, Malcolm X heard firsthand accounts of the 1956 Khan Younis massacre from Palestinian poet Harun Hashem Rashid.
1956: Betty Sanders Joins the Nation of Islam
In 1956, Betty Sanders joined the Nation of Islam, adopting the name Betty X, signifying her commitment to the organization and her burgeoning relationship with Malcolm X.
1957: Public Awareness of Malcolm X
The American public became more aware of Malcolm X in 1957 following an incident where Hinton Johnson, a Nation of Islam member, was severely beaten by New York City police officers. This event brought Malcolm X and the Nation of Islam's message of racial injustice and self-defense into the spotlight.
January 1958: Marriage to Betty X
Malcolm X and Betty X were married in January 1958, two days after he proposed over the phone. Their relationship was significant not only for its personal importance but also because it took place within the context of their shared commitment to the Nation of Islam.
1959: Malcolm X's First Trip to Africa
In 1959, Malcolm X first traveled to Africa on behalf of Elijah Muhammad, making arrangements for a future tour. This initial trip marked the beginning of his growing interest in Pan-Africanism and his advocacy for the rights of people of African descent worldwide.
1959: Television Documentary and Growing Recognition
Malcolm X's prominence grew in 1959, with his views featured in a New York City television documentary called "The Hate That Hate Produced." This exposure further solidified his role as a significant figure in the national discourse on race and the Nation of Islam. He was now frequently using the name Malcolm Shabazz or el-Hajj Malik el-Shabazz.
1959: Malcolm X Visits Al-Aqsa Mosque
Malcolm X visited Al-Aqsa mosque as a representative of Elijah Muhammad in 1959.
September 1960: Meeting International Leaders at the UN General Assembly
In September 1960, at the United Nations General Assembly, Malcolm X met with several influential figures, including Gamal Abdel Nasser of Egypt, Ahmed Sékou Touré of Guinea, and Fidel Castro of Cuba. Castro was particularly impressed by Malcolm X and invited him to visit Cuba.
1960: Birth of Qubilah
Malcolm X and Betty X welcomed their daughter, Qubilah, in 1960. She was named after Kublai Khan.
1961: Confrontation in South Central Los Angeles
In 1961, violent clashes broke out between Nation of Islam members and police in South Central Los Angeles, resulting in numerous arrests and escalating tensions. This event contributed to Malcolm X's growing unease about the direction of the organization.
1961: Rally with George Lincoln Rockwell
In a controversial move in 1961, Malcolm X shared a platform with George Lincoln Rockwell, the leader of the American Nazi Party, at a rally. This event highlighted Malcolm X's complex views on race and his willingness to collaborate with controversial figures who shared some of his beliefs, such as black nationalism. His negative views about Jews continued even close to his death.
April 27, 1962: Confrontation at Temple Number 27
On April 27, 1962, a violent clash erupted between Los Angeles police and members of the Nation of Islam outside Temple Number 27. This incident exposed the growing tensions between the Nation and law enforcement and raised concerns for Malcolm X about the organization's direction.
1962: Birth of Ilyasah
Ilyasah, named after Elijah Muhammad, was born to Malcolm X and Betty X in 1962, further expanding their family.
1962: Reassessing the Nation of Islam
Malcolm X began to reevaluate his connection to the Nation of Islam and Elijah Muhammad during 1962, influenced by a series of events that challenged his beliefs and loyalties.
December 1, 1963: Malcolm X's Controversial Statement on JFK Assassination
On December 1, 1963, Malcolm X sparked controversy with his response to John F. Kennedy's assassination, referring to it as "chickens coming home to roost." His statement, interpreted by many as condoning the act, drew criticism and further fueled existing tensions.
1963: Reassessing the Nation of Islam
Doubts about the Nation of Islam continued to grow in Malcolm X's mind during 1963 as he became increasingly aware of contradictions between the organization's teachings and the actions of its leaders.
1963: Criticism of the Civil Rights Movement
In 1963, Malcolm X publicly criticized the Civil Rights Movement and its leaders, including Martin Luther King Jr., whom he deemed as too accommodating to the white establishment. He opposed integration and considered the March on Washington a symbolic gesture with little impact.
1963: Confirmation of Rumors about Elijah Muhammad
In 1963, Malcolm X's faith in Elijah Muhammad was irrevocably shaken when rumors of Muhammad's extramarital affairs with young secretaries were confirmed. This discovery, a stark violation of the Nation of Islam's teachings, led Malcolm X to question the moral authority of its leader.
1963: Malcolm X Gains Media Attention and Publishes Autobiography
In 1963, Malcolm X's increasing media presence and the publication of his autobiography, which garnered significant attention, began to create tension with Elijah Muhammad and some members of the Nation of Islam.
1963: Malcolm X Starts Autobiography
Malcolm X began collaborating with Alex Haley on his autobiography, "The Autobiography of Malcolm X," in 1963.
January 1964: Relationship with Muhammad Ali
Malcolm X played a crucial role in Muhammad Ali's conversion to the Nation of Islam. However, their relationship became strained after Malcolm X's departure from the organization, with Ali ultimately choosing to distance himself, a decision he later regretted.
March 8, 1964: Malcolm X Breaks from the Nation of Islam
On March 8, 1964, Malcolm X announced his departure from the Nation of Islam, citing ideological differences and a desire to engage with a broader spectrum of civil rights activists. Despite this break, he affirmed his commitment to Islam and his intention to continue advocating for Black empowerment.
March 26, 1964: Malcolm X Founds Organizations and Briefly Meets Martin Luther King Jr.
After leaving the Nation of Islam, Malcolm X established two organizations: Muslim Mosque, Inc. (MMI) and the Organization of Afro-American Unity (OAAU). On March 26, 1964, he and Martin Luther King Jr. were photographed together during a Senate debate on the Civil Rights bill, marking their first and only encounter.
April 1964: Malcolm X Embarks on Hajj Pilgrimage
In April 1964, Malcolm X traveled to Mecca for the Hajj pilgrimage, a significant event in the life of any Muslim. However, his journey was met with unexpected delays in Jeddah due to questions surrounding his U.S. citizenship and fluency in Arabic.
April 1964: Malcolm X's Travels and Advocacy in Africa
Following his pilgrimage to Mecca in April 1964, Malcolm X embarked on a series of trips throughout Africa, engaging with leaders, giving interviews, and advocating for Pan-Africanism. His travels aimed to build bridges and foster solidarity among people of African descent.
September 1964: Ebony Magazine Publishes Photo of Malcolm X with Firearm
In September 1964, Ebony magazine published a photograph of Malcolm X holding a firearm, symbolizing his defiance in the face of threats and his willingness to defend himself and his beliefs.
November 23, 1964: Malcolm X Speaks in Paris and Condemns US Imperialism
On November 23, 1964, during a stop in Paris, Malcolm X delivered a speech at the Salle de la Mutualité, where he further condemned US imperialism in the Congo. He accused the US government of supporting Moïse Tshombe's regime and denounced their involvement in the exploitation of African nations.
1964: Malcolm X Leaves the Nation of Islam
After leaving the Nation of Islam in 1964, Malcolm X compared his previous role to a ventriloquist's dummy, implying he was limited in expressing his own beliefs.
1964: Malcolm X Visits Gaza and Meets with PLO
In 1964, Malcolm X visited the Khan Younis refugee camp and met with religious leaders in Gaza. He later traveled to Cairo to meet with members of the Palestinian Liberation Organization.
1964: Break with the Nation of Islam
After years of dedicated service, 1964 marked a pivotal moment when Malcolm X decided to break away from the Nation of Islam. This decision stemmed from growing disillusionment with the organization and its leader, Elijah Muhammad.
1964: Malcolm X Faces Increasing Threats
Throughout 1964, as Malcolm X's criticism of the Nation of Islam escalated, he became the target of numerous threats, highlighting the dangerous consequences of challenging established power structures and ideologies.
1964: Birth of Gamilah Lumumba
Malcolm X and Betty X's daughter, Gamilah Lumumba, named after Gamal Abdel Nasser and Patrice Lumumba, was born in 1964.
1964: Malcolm X's Conflict with the Nation of Islam
Throughout 1964, Malcolm X's conflict with the Nation of Islam escalated, leading to numerous death threats against him.
1964: Malcolm X Speaks Out Against Racial Discrimination in Smethwick
In 1964, Malcolm X visited Smethwick, England, a town grappling with significant racial tensions. He drew parallels between the treatment of ethnic minorities in Smethwick and the persecution of Jews under Hitler, using his platform to condemn racism and call for social justice.
1964: Malcolm X Leaves the Nation of Islam
In 1964, Malcolm X left the Nation of Islam and became a vocal critic of the organization.
1964: Malcolm X's Criticism of Moïse Tshombe and Imperialism
During 1964, Malcolm X publicly condemned Congolese leader Moïse Tshombe, labeling him an "Uncle Tom" for enlisting white mercenaries to suppress the Simba rebellion. He accused Tshombe of human rights abuses and criticized U.S. support for his regime, highlighting the hypocrisy of Western powers in the context of African independence movements.
1964: Public Exposure of Elijah Muhammad
Between 1964 and 1965, Malcolm X bravely revealed his investigation and confirmation of Elijah Muhammad's sexual misconduct, including multiple counts of child rape, through a series of national television interviews. These revelations, a dangerous move against a powerful figure, demonstrated his commitment to truth and justice, even at great personal risk. He also shared the threats he received in response to his actions.
February 5, 1965: Malcolm X Visits the UK and Addresses Council of African Organizations
On February 5, 1965, Malcolm X traveled to the United Kingdom and addressed the first meeting of the Council of African Organizations in London, further solidifying his role as a prominent advocate for Pan-Africanism.
February 14, 1965: Malcolm X's Home Destroyed in Suspected Arson Attack
On February 14, 1965, Malcolm X's home was destroyed in a fire, widely believed to be a deliberate act of arson. This incident, coming amidst escalating tensions and threats, underscored the risks associated with his activism and the vulnerability of his family.
February 19, 1965: Malcolm X Reveals Assassination Threats
On February 19, 1965, Malcolm X confided in an interview that he believed the Nation of Islam was actively plotting to kill him, shedding light on the severity of the threats he faced.
February 21, 1965: Assassination of Malcolm X
Malcolm X was assassinated on February 21, 1965.
February 21, 1965: Assassination of Malcolm X
Malcolm X was assassinated on February 21, 1965.
1965: Malcolm X Engages with Diverse Audiences and Shares His Message
Throughout 1965, Malcolm X actively engaged with various audiences, speaking at universities, socialist gatherings, and during interviews. He embraced opportunities to share his evolving perspectives on race, equality, and social justice, captivating listeners with his powerful oratory skills and thought-provoking insights.
1965: Birth of Twins Malikah and Malaak
Tragically, Malcolm X was assassinated shortly before the birth of his twin daughters, Malikah and Malaak, in 1965. They were named in his honor.
1965: Malcolm X Advocates for a Free Palestine
Following his travels, Malcolm X continued to advocate for a free and unified Palestine in his speeches, including a notable one in Detroit in 1965.
1965: Publication of Malcolm X's Autobiography
Malcolm X's autobiography, co-authored with Alex Haley, was published posthumously in 1965.
1965: Malcolm Little's Childhood Home Demolished
In 1965, the first home of Malcolm Little (Malcolm X) in North Omaha, Nebraska, was demolished by new owners unaware of its historical significance.
1965: Public Exposure of Elijah Muhammad
Between 1964 and 1965, Malcolm X bravely revealed his investigation and confirmation of Elijah Muhammad's sexual misconduct, including multiple counts of child rape, through a series of national television interviews. These revelations, a dangerous move against a powerful figure, demonstrated his commitment to truth and justice, even at great personal risk. He also shared the threats he received in response to his actions.
March 1966: Three Men Convicted of Malcolm X's Murder
In March 1966, three men, all members of the Nation of Islam, were found guilty of Malcolm X's assassination and sentenced to life in prison. The convictions, while bringing a semblance of justice, did little to quell the controversy surrounding his death or the complex questions it raised.
1967: Malcolm X Inspires Fictional Character
The character Minister Q in John A. Williams's 1967 novel, "The Man Who Cried I Am," was inspired by Malcolm X.
1968: UCSB Students Rename Building to Honor Malcolm X
In 1968, black students at the University of California, Santa Barbara, occupied North Hall and renamed it Malcolm X Hall to demand recognition of black student needs, leading to the creation of the Department of Black Studies.
1969: Malcolm X Liberation University Founded
Malcolm X Liberation University, founded in 1969 in North Carolina, was established on the Pan-Africanist principles championed by Malcolm X.
1971: First Malcolm X Day Celebration
The first known celebration of Malcolm X Day occurred in Washington, D.C., in 1971, marking the beginning of widespread recognition of his birthday.
1972: Release of the Documentary "Malcolm X"
The documentary film "Malcolm X," directed by Arnold Perl and Marvin Worth, was released in 1972 after their initial plans for a drama film based on his autobiography fell through.
1975: Michigan Honors Malcolm Little's Childhood Home
In 1975, a Michigan Historical Marker was placed at Malcolm Little's childhood home in Lansing, Michigan. The city also houses El-Hajj Malik El-Shabazz Academy, an Afrocentric public charter school, in the building where Little attended elementary school.
1977: Talmadge Hayer Implicates Others in Malcolm X's Assassination
Years later, in 1977, one of the convicted assassins, Talmadge Hayer, signed affidavits claiming the innocence of the other two men and implicating additional individuals from the Nation of Islam in the planning and execution of the murder.
1978: Continued Controversy and Questions Surrounding Malcolm X's Assassination
In 1978, Talmadge Hayer's attempts to recant his previous testimony and implicate others in Malcolm X's assassination added another layer of complexity to the case. Despite his efforts, the case remained closed, leaving many questions unanswered and fueling speculation surrounding the true circumstances of the assassination.
1979: Berkeley Recognizes Malcolm X Day
In 1979, Berkeley, California, became the first city to formally recognize Malcolm X's birthday as a citywide holiday.
1981: Denzel Washington Plays Malcolm X Off-Broadway
Denzel Washington portrayed Malcolm X in the 1981 Off-Broadway play "When the Chickens Came Home to Roost."
1984: Malcolm Little's Birthplace Listed on National Register
In 1984, the site of Malcolm Little's birthplace in North Omaha, Nebraska, was listed on the National Register of Historic Places, acknowledging its historical significance.
1985: Muhammad Abdul Aziz Released on Parole
In 1985, Muhammad Abdul Aziz, formerly known as Norman 3X Butler, was released from prison on parole after serving time for the murder of Malcolm X. His release, while controversial, marked a turning point in the case and fueled continued debate about the identity and motives of those involved in the assassination.
1985: Brooklyn Renames Street After Malcolm X
In 1985, Reid Avenue in Brooklyn, New York, was renamed Malcolm X Boulevard, and the borough also named El Shabazz Playground in his honor.
1986: Premiere of "X, The Life and Times of Malcolm X"
Anthony Davis's opera "X, The Life and Times of Malcolm X" premiered at the New York City Opera in 1986.
1986: Ella Little-Collins Merges Organizations
Ella Little-Collins merged the Organization of Afro-American Unity with the African American Defense League in 1986.
1987: Khalil Islam Released from Prison
In 1987, Khalil Islam, formerly known as Thomas 15X Johnson, was released from prison after serving a sentence for his role in Malcolm X's assassination. He maintained his innocence until his death.
1987: Harlem Renames Lenox Avenue to Honor Malcolm X
In 1987, Lenox Avenue in Harlem, New York City, was renamed Malcolm X Boulevard by Mayor Ed Koch.
1992: Release of Spike Lee's "Malcolm X"
Spike Lee's biographical film "Malcolm X," starring Denzel Washington in the title role, was released in 1992 and went on to be recognized as one of the best films of the 1990s by critics such as Roger Ebert and Martin Scorsese.
1992: "Malcolm X" Film Released
The film adaptation of "The Autobiography of Malcolm X" was released in 1992, directed by Spike Lee and starring Denzel Washington.
1993: Louis Farrakhan Acknowledges Possible Nation of Islam Involvement
In 1993, Louis Farrakhan gave a speech where he seemed to acknowledge the possibility that the Nation of Islam was responsible for Malcolm X's assassination.
1996: First Malcolm X Library Opens
The Malcolm X Branch Library and Performing Arts Center, part of the San Diego Public Library system, opened in 1996, marking the first library named after Malcolm X.
1997: Dallas Renames Street After Malcolm X
In 1997, Oakland Avenue in Dallas, Texas, was renamed Malcolm X Boulevard, demonstrating the growing national recognition of his legacy.
1998: Autobiography Named Influential Book
"The Autobiography of Malcolm X" was recognized by Time magazine in 1998 as one of the ten most influential nonfiction books of the 20th century.
1998: Muhammad Abdul Aziz Becomes Head of Harlem Mosque
In 1998, Muhammad Abdul Aziz became the leader of the Nation of Islam's mosque in Harlem, a move met with mixed reactions.
1999: U.S. Postal Service Issues Malcolm X Stamp
In 1999, the U.S. Postal Service issued a postage stamp honoring Malcolm X, signifying his national recognition and historical importance.
May 2000: Farrakhan Expresses Regret Over Words Potentially Leading to Assassination
During a "60 Minutes" interview in May 2000, Louis Farrakhan stated that some of his past words may have contributed to Malcolm X's assassination, expressing regret while denying ordering the assassination.
2005: Columbia University Opens Malcolm X and Dr. Betty Shabazz Memorial
In 2005, Columbia University opened the Malcolm X and Dr. Betty Shabazz Memorial and Educational Center in the Audubon Ballroom, the location of Malcolm X's assassination.
2005: Opening of the Malcolm X and Dr. Betty Shabazz Memorial and Educational Center
The Audubon Ballroom, the site of Malcolm X's assassination, was partially redeveloped in 2005 to house the Malcolm X and Dr. Betty Shabazz Memorial and Educational Center.
August 2009: Death of Thomas Johnson, Convicted Assassin of Malcolm X
In August 2009, Thomas Johnson, one of the men convicted of assassinating Malcolm X, died, maintaining his innocence until his death.
2010: Lansing Renames Main Street After Malcolm X
In 2010, Main Street in Lansing, Michigan, Malcolm X's hometown, was renamed Malcolm X Street, reflecting his lasting impact on the city.
2010: Mujahid Halim Released on Parole
In 2010, Mujahid Halim, formerly known as Talmadge Hayer, was granted parole after spending decades in prison for his role in Malcolm X's assassination. His release marked the end of a long and controversial chapter in the case, leaving behind a legacy of unanswered questions and a continued search for the full truth.
2011: Manning Marable's Book Published
Manning Marable's book, "Malcolm X: A Life of Reinvention," published in 2011, presented controversial claims about Malcolm X's personal life, including allegations of bisexuality and an exaggerated criminal past.
August 2014: Petition for Release of Malcolm X Assassination Files
In August 2014, an online petition was launched urging the government to release any unaltered files they possessed related to Malcolm X's murder.
2016: Ankara, Turkey, Names Street After Malcolm X
In 2016, Ankara, Turkey, renamed the street where the new U.S. embassy was under construction after Malcolm X.
January 2019: Call for Truth and Reconciliation Commission
In January 2019, family members of Malcolm X, John F. Kennedy, Martin Luther King Jr., and Robert F. Kennedy, along with others, signed a statement calling for a truth and reconciliation commission to investigate their assassinations.
2019: Anthony Davis Wins Pulitzer Prize for Music
Anthony Davis, the composer of "X, The Life and Times of Malcolm X," won the Pulitzer Prize for Music for his opera "The Central Park Five" in 2019.
February 21, 2021: Posthumous Letter from Raymond Wood Released
On February 21, 2021, a press conference revealed a posthumous letter from deceased NYPD officer Raymond Wood, alleging he was told to incite civil rights leaders to commit crimes, potentially impacting Malcolm X's assassination.
February 26, 2021: Raymond Wood's Letter Disputed
On February 26, 2021, Kelly Wood, daughter of Raymond Wood, disputed the authenticity of the letter presented on February 21, claiming it was fabricated by her cousin.
2021: Malcolm X—Ella Little-Collins House Gains National Recognition
In 2021, the Malcolm X—Ella Little-Collins House in Boston, Massachusetts, where Malcolm X lived with his half-sister and became involved with the Nation of Islam, was added to the National Register of Historic Places.
2021: Vacated Convictions in Malcolm X's Murder
In 2021, two of the convictions related to Malcolm X's assassination were vacated.
2021: Death of Malikah
In 2021, Malcolm X's daughter, Malikah, passed away.
2021: Conrad Grebel University College Launches Malcolm X Scholarship
Conrad Grebel University College in Canada established the Malcolm X Peace and Conflict Studies Scholarship in 2021 to support Black and Indigenous students pursuing a Master of Peace and Conflict Studies.
July 14, 2022: Muhammad Abdul Aziz Files Lawsuit
On July 14, 2022, Muhammad Abdul Aziz, who was exonerated in 2021 for the murder of Malcolm X, filed a lawsuit against the City of New York for $40 million in damages related to his wrongful imprisonment.
2023: Malcolm X's Family Files Wrongful Death Lawsuit
In early 2023, Malcolm X's family announced a $100 million wrongful death lawsuit against the CIA, FBI, NYPD, and others, alleging a cover-up and potential involvement in his assassination.
2023: Metropolitan Opera Stages "X, The Life and Times of Malcolm X"
The Metropolitan Opera staged a production of "X, The Life and Times of Malcolm X" in 2023, directed by Robert O'Hara and starring Will Liverman as Malcolm X, which received positive critical acclaim.
2023: Present Day Value of Life Insurance Benefit
The life insurance benefit Louise Little received in 1929 would be equivalent to approximately $20,000 in 2023.
2024: Malcolm X Inducted into Nebraska Hall of Fame
In 2024, Malcolm X was inducted into the Nebraska Hall of Fame, with a bust of him placed in the Nebraska State Capitol.