Malcolm X Day returns to Harlem on the Black liberation leader’s 101st birthday on May 19. While tributes span across the world, few places can rival the historic Black neighborhood’s importance when discussing the legacy of El-Hajj Malik El-Shabazz.
A Black Power rally and march will assemble at the Adam Clayton Powell, Jr. State Office Building and the subsequent annual “Shut Em Down” rally will take place between 1 to 4 p.m., closing down the businesses along 125th Street’s main corridor.
The shutdown dates back more than three decades through the December 12 Movement. Last year, Chick-fil-A notably drew boycotts and protests after the Atlanta-based fast food chain remained open
December 12 Movement leaders asked people to continue boycotting Chick-Fil-A this year. The Harlem location will remain open this year.
“While our restaurant remains open to serve our guests, per our corporate operating standards, our commitment to this neighborhood extends far beyond our front doors,” said the location’s local owner, Kevin Young over email. “I am grateful to be out in the community, engaging with several of the local organizations we are proud to support year-round.”
Malcolm X’s history is well documented in Harlem, particularly during his time as minister of the Nation of Islam when he preached at Temple No. 7, now known as Masjid Malcolm Shabazz. He first came onto the Amsterdam News’ radar after organizing outside the 28th Precinct in order to free Johnson X Hinton, a Black Muslim who the NYPD brutalized and arrested after he intervened in a police-involved beating. This led to his column in the paper for a year.
Last year, Harlem also honored him by unveiling Malcolm X Plaza, at Malcolm X Boulevard and 110th Street/Central Park North.
Author’s Note: A previous draft of this story was published. This has been updated to reflect the article published in the May 14-May 20 print edition.
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