Lighthouse Mosque Launches Malcolm X Book Club on 60th Anniversary of His Assassination

On February 21, 2025, the Lighthouse Mosque in Oakland became a hub for community learning and reflection as it marked the 60th anniversary of the assassination of Malcolm X. To honor his legacy, Habari Ummah, in partnership with Lighthouse Mosque, launched a community book club focused on reading The Autobiography of Malcolm X.

A Powerful Sermon Remembering Malcolm X

The day began with a Friday sermon by Imam Sundiata Rashid, who passionately spoke about Malcolm X’s impact on the Muslim community and the civil rights movement. He reminded attendees of Malcolm X’s sacrifices, dedication to justice, and contribution to the growth of Islam in America.

Community Book Club Launch

Following the sermon, nearly 50 community members of different backgrounds gathered for the book club’s first meeting at Lighthouse Mosque. The initiative is funded by the Akonadi Foundation and led by Rasheed Shabazz of Habari Ummah.

Participants engaged in interactive discussions about their experiences with the book. Some had read it before, while others were exploring it for the first time. Discussion prompts encouraged attendees to reflect on Malcolm X’s teachings, personal growth, and political activism.

Diverse Perspectives on Malcolm X’s Legacy

Yveey Perez – A New Muslim Inspired by Malcolm X

Yveey Perez, a Latina ethnic studies student, shared how Malcolm X’s story influenced her recent conversion to Islam. She highlighted the connection between revolutionary movements and Islam, which played a role in her spiritual journey.

Jarra Omar – Unlearning a Whitewashed Narrative

Jarra Omar, 23, admitted that he had previously skimmed through the book using summaries in school. Now, he is eager to understand Malcolm X’s real story beyond what he was taught in traditional education.

Muna Buhari – Exploring the American Muslim Experience

Muna Buhari, who grew up in India and studied in the UK, had never read the book but watched the movie. She expressed interest in learning more about the American Muslim experience and how Malcolm X’s activism differed from that of British Muslims.

Rafiq Kamal – A Personal Connection to Malcolm X

Rafiq Kamal, a 41-year-old father of six daughters, proudly shared his connection to Malcolm X. Born in Omaha, Nebraska, like the civil rights leader, he sees the book club as an opportunity to pass down important lessons to his children.

Naasir Haleem – A Lifelong Admiration for Malcolm X

Naasir Haleem, who recently moved to Oakland from Chicago, first read The Autobiography of Malcolm X at just 10 years old. He emphasized how book clubs create a strong sense of community and deepen one’s understanding of influential figures like Malcolm X.

Ongoing Meetings & How to Join

The book club will hold weekly discussions every Tuesday evening, both online and in person at Lighthouse Mosque. Each session will cover assigned chapters, led by Rasheed Shabazz or guest facilitators.

Interested participants can join by emailing Habari Ummah or filling out the interest form.

This initiative serves as a powerful tribute to Malcolm X’s enduring influence, fostering education, unity, and meaningful conversations within the community.