On February 21, 2025, the Lighthouse Mosque in Oakland hosted a powerful event marking the 60th anniversary of the assassination of Malcolm X, also known as El Hajj Malik el-Shabazz. In partnership with Habari Ummah, the mosque launched a community book club dedicated to reading The Autobiography of Malcolm X.
A Sermon Honoring Malcolm X’s Legacy
During the Friday sermon, Imam Sundiata Rashid emphasized Malcolm X’s impact on Islam in America, his fight for justice, and his dedication to civil rights. The sermon set the tone for an evening of learning and reflection.
Book Club Brings the Community Together
Later that evening, nearly 50 attendees gathered at Lighthouse Mosque for the book club’s first meeting. This initiative, supported by the Akonadi Foundation, was led by Rasheed Shabazz of Habari Ummah.
Attendees engaged in interactive discussions, sharing their personal experiences with the book. Some had read it before, while others were discovering it for the first time. Participants reflected on Malcolm X’s teachings, social activism, and spiritual transformation.
Diverse Perspectives on Malcolm X’s Influence
Yveey Perez – A New Muslim Inspired by Malcolm X
Yveey Perez, a Latina ethnic studies student, recently converted to Islam. She shared how Malcolm X’s story influenced her journey, explaining how his revolutionary mindset led her to Islam.
Jarra Omar – Challenging a Whitewashed Narrative
Jarra Omar, 23, admitted to only reading summaries of the book in school. Now, he wants to learn the full truth about Malcolm X, beyond the distorted narratives taught in traditional education.
Muna Buhari – Learning About the American Muslim Experience
Muna Buhari, who grew up in India and studied in the UK, had watched the Malcolm X movie but never read the book. She found the book club a great way to understand the struggles of American Muslims compared to British Muslims.
Rafiq Kamal – A Personal Connection to Malcolm X
Rafiq Kamal, a father of six daughters, proudly shared that, like Malcolm X, he was born in Omaha, Nebraska. He believes this book club will help him pass down Malcolm X’s lessons to his children.
Naasir Haleem – A Lifelong Student of Malcolm X
Naasir Haleem, who recently moved to Oakland, first read The Autobiography of Malcolm X at age 10. He praised the book club for fostering community engagement and keeping Malcolm X’s legacy alive.
Weekly Book Club Meetings – How to Join
The book club will meet every Tuesday evening, both online and in person at Lighthouse Mosque. Sessions will cover assigned chapters and be led by Rasheed Shabazz or guest facilitators.
How to Participate:
- Email Habari Ummah for details.
- Fill out the interest form to register.
This educational initiative celebrates Malcolm X’s legacy, bringing people together to learn, reflect, and engage in meaningful discussions.
