RESOLUTION NO. 250422
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Sponsor: Councilmember Johnathan Duncan
RESOLUTION - Commemorating the life and legacy of Malcolm X on his 100th birthday and honoring The Kansas City Defender, Community Movement Builders-KC Chapter, and the National Black United Front-KC Chapter for their work in the community.
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WHEREAS, Malcolm X rose from a childhood marked by systemic racism and incarceration to become one of the most influential Black leaders of the 20th century, and after joining and later departing from the Nation of Islam, Malcolm X broadened his vision of liberation through his pilgrimage to Mecca, evolving into a Pan-Africanist and international human rights leader who viewed the struggle of Black Americans not merely as a civil rights issue, but as a global human rights crisis, connecting the Black freedom movement in the U.S. with struggles for liberation across Africa, Asia, and the Caribbean; and
WHEREAS, May 19, 2025, marks the 100th birthday of Malcolm X and serves as a powerful reminder of his enduring teachings of Black dignity, unity, and consciousness; and
WHEREAS, The KC Defender exemplifies Malcolm X’s teachings through dignified, Black-centered representation in news media, fostering critical political and cultural education through B-REAL Academy, and advancing Black solidarity through mutual aid efforts; and
WHEREAS, the CMB - KC Chapter embodies Malcolm X’s vision of Black self-actualization and communal uplift by offering mental health services, housing support, mutual aid initiatives, and grassroots economic development rooted in unity and autonomy; and
WHEREAS, the NBUF -KC Chapter upholds Malcolm X’s principles by advancing African-centered education, stimulating the Black economy through initiatives such as Buy Black and WeDevelopment Credit Union, and fostering Black cultural and intergenerational unity through Simba Na Falami and city-wide Kwanzaa celebrations; and
WHEREAS, these organizations wish to honor the legacy of Malcolm X on the centennial of his birth; NOW, THEREFORE,
BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF KANSAS CITY:
That the Mayor and Council hereby declare May 19, 2025, as a day of celebration and recognition for 100 Years of Malcolm X in Kansas City; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this Resolution be spread upon the Minutes of the Council in testimony thereof and that a copy hereof be presented to The KC Defender, CMB, and NBUF with the Mayor and Council extending their heartfelt appreciation to these organizations and all partners for their tireless efforts in creating a more empowered and united Black community.
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