"This Will Be a Citywide Salute to Malcolm on His Birthday"

Herb Boyd, Amsterdam News journalist and writer

Herb Boyd, Dr. Haki Madhubuti Keynote Speakers for "Malcolm X Day" in Detroit

On May 19, the birth date of civil rights icon Malcolm X,  the Charles H. Wright Museum of African-American History will host a highly-anticipated event entitled "Malcolm X Day: A Historic Homecoming".  

The celebration, as described by award-winning journalist and author Herb Boyd, who will serve as a keynote speaker with renowned author and educator Dr. Haki Madhubuti, will be held at 315 East Warren Avenue in Detroit, Michigan, the city that was home to the civil rights leader during his early years.

Boyd and Madhubuti are scheduled to speak from 3 to 5pm.

Dr. Haki Madhubuti

The free event will showcase original writings and letters, as well as artifacts and a rare bust of the beloved and former Nation of Islam leader. 

Musical tributes will include African drumming by the Amen Ra Drummers, Queen Mother Dr. Oshundara Nefertiti El, 5-Time Amateur Night at the Apollo Winner Jessica Care Moore, and saxophonist Tony Holland and Friends. 

Newly-released books on Malcolm X will be available for purchase, and a book signing -- in addition to a question and answer session -- will be part of the all-day event.    

"Of all the cities that lay claim to Malcolm X, Detroit has a seminal place," said Boyd,  also a Detroit native.  

"It was in Detroit where he began his liberated odyssey with the Nation of Islam. No matter where he journeyed, Malcolm always had a deep and abiding love for this city and the city never failed to return that love and devotion. And for a citywide salute to Malcolm on his birthday, the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History -- with its collection of memorabilia on Malcolm -- is the perfect venue for such an occasion."

More information can be obtained by contacting the museum at (313) 494-5800.

Boyd photo courtesy of http://www.itsabouttimebpp.com/

Madhubuti photo courtesy of  Howard.edu