LA Honors Malcolm X's Civil Rights Legacy with Crenshaw Boulevard Co-Naming
Saturday, May 20, 2023
LEIMERT PARK, LOS ANGELES—In a significant tribute to Malcolm X’s profound contributions to the civil rights movement, a 5-mile section of Crenshaw Boulevard was dedicated on Saturday. This remarkable ceremony took place during the esteemed 18th annual Malcolm X Festival in Leimert Park. Congresswoman Sydney Kamlager-Dove, and Los Angeles city councilwoman Heather Hutt who represent the area, delivered a poignant address, emphasizing the enduring responsibility to uphold Malcolm X’s legacy and the ongoing fight for justice and inclusivity.
Initiated by Torrence Brannon-Reese in 1994, the co-naming efforts to designate Crenshaw Boulevard as “Malcolm X Boulevard” gained traction, garnering support from various community groups. Brannon-Reese’s plan specifically aimed to add the co-name from the 10 freeway down to 79th Street, bordering Inglewood. The new dedication places Malcolm X alongside other esteemed figures whose names grace landmarks in the community, such as the Rosa Parks Freeway, Obama Boulevard, MLK Boulevard, and Nipsey Hussle Square.
Coinciding with what would have been Malcolm X’s 98th birthday, the unveiling ceremony carried even greater significance. L.A. City Councilwoman Heather Hutt remarked, “This five-mile stretch of Crenshaw Boulevard pays homage to the legacy of Malcolm X, who dedicated his life to Black empowerment and pride.” Congresswoman Maxine Waters, who personally knew Malcolm X, passionately recounted his tireless efforts to fight for the dignity and equality of Black people. She reminded the audience of Malcolm X’s powerful words: “You are important, you are special, you are to be respected, and you are to fight for it. If you fight, you can win. But if you don’t fight, you’ll never know.”
Councilwoman Hutt emphasized that the initiative to honor Malcolm X transcends a mere street sign, envisioning it as a catalyst for fostering pride, a sense of belonging, and knowledge within the community and beyond. FA-MLI, Inc., an organization dedicated to cultural and educational initiatives, has played a pivotal role in the ongoing movement to add Malcolm X’s name to Crenshaw Boulevard. This endeavor seeks to acknowledge Malcolm X’s frequent presence in Los Angeles during the civil rights era, where his powerful voice resonated. Malcolm X’s contributions include his involvement in building Mosque #27 in the late ’50s and early ’60s, his impactful speech at the Second Baptist Church in 1962, and his enduring influence on contemporary issues.
Los Angeles, known for its rich history in the civil rights movement, holds a special place in the story of Malcolm X. During the turbulent era of the 1950s and ’60s, Malcolm X frequently found himself in the city, leaving an indelible mark on its landscape. His involvement in building Mosque #27 and delivering a memorable speech at the Second Baptist Church highlighted his unwavering commitment to social justice. However, despite his profound impact, Los Angeles lacked a street that honored his presence—until now.
