By: Dr. John E. Warren, Publisher San Diego Voice & Viewpoint Newspaper |
As we have done elsewhere in this issue, it is important that we remember and celebrate the life of Malcolm X on the 100th anniversary of his birth. This publisher has fond memories of time spent with Minister Malcolm X, 61 years ago. It was while working for the late Congressman Adam Clayton Powell of New York, who represented Harlem. He met the Minister, who often appeared at the Congressional Office early before opening time. It was during such times that this publisher, as a young man, would come early to open the office and find the Minister waiting at the door. We shared light conversations about a number of things, but what was always most memorable was the extent to which he would listen without judgment or criticism.
African Americans need to be reminded of this man, his life, legacy and sacrifices, today perhaps, more than when he was alive 61 years ago. We invite you to help us do so.
Why? Because in the end, before his assassination, he was about all of us as children of God, and the need to live without racism while still being race-conscious.
And as we remember Malcolm, let us not forget that it was former slaves who created Memorial Day to honor Union soldiers who died as prisoners of war in Confederate captivity and were buried without recognition. The story is told on our front page. The real issue here is to look at Memorial Day with respect and appreciation. I’m remembering that for more than 23 years, thousands of people have gathered in Anacostia Park in Southeast Washington, D. C., a District I represented from the inception of the event, to honor Minister Malcolm. These recognitions are more important than ever in a day when there are so many public efforts to erase our history and therefore our knowledge of who we are.
Memorial Day is more than time off from work and picnics. That first day, when former slaves came together in Charleston, South Carolina to rebury and honor the dead Union soldiers, brought out the Black community at all levels to celebrate those who had died unknown. The children brought flowers, the churches came out with song and praise and the community celebrated it all, right there on the burial grounds with respect for the fallen. What will you do?