Recap: Community Unites to Honor Legacy at Malcolm X Human Rights Breakfast

The 3rd Annual Malcolm X Human Rights Breakfast showcased community leadership, cultural pride, and the next generation of activists as Los Angeles prepares for the Malcolm X Centennial Celebration

Event Highlights Cultural Legacy and Community Achievement

This past Saturday, the beautiful Afro City space at Baldwin Hills Crenshaw Mall was filled with inspiration, cultural celebration, and community leadership as FAMLI hosted the 3rd Annual Malcolm X Human Rights Breakfast.

The morning began with the rhythmic welcome of African drummers, immediately establishing the cultural significance of the gathering. After an opening prayer by Reverend Oliver Buie, FAMLI founder Torrence Brannon-Reese welcomed attendees and set the tone for a morning of celebration and recognition.

Distinguished Honorees and Special Recognition

The event honored two distinguished community leaders: Dr. Ernestine Thomas-Robertson and Dr. Lydia Cincore Templeton for their lifelong commitment to education, empowerment, and community service.

In a special tribute, the breakfast recognized renowned photographer Sabir Majeed for his 45-year career documenting the community's history and cultural moments. Despite facing challenges with dementia, Majeed spoke briefly about his remarkable journey, followed by international social entrepreneur Roman Combs discussing his "LEGACY Leaders" exhibit, which features Nipsey Hussle, Ben Caldwell, Karen Mack, Torrence Brannon-Reese and several others.

Youth Voices Lead the Way

One of the morning's standout moments came when 15-year-old Malcolm Mitchell delivered a powerful human rights speech that earned a standing ovation from the audience. The FA-MLI See a Man, Be A Man students also impressed attendees with their performance of the nine program affirmations.

Educational leadership was highlighted through remarks from Mr. Gilberto Samuels, principal of BALA High School, who shared insights on his student's progress and educational empowerment strategies.

Culture on Display

The organic African fashion show coordinated by Queen Nzingha "Ejukwa" delivered stunning cultural designs and received enthusiastic audience appreciation. This cultural showcase paired perfectly with the delicious breakfast catered by IHOP that nourished both bodies and spirits throughout the event.

Co-hosts Lorenzo Frank and Laneay London guided the morning's proceedings with grace and energy, while Andre Parvenu/Msonga Mbele was recognized for their work coordinating the upcoming Malcolm X Festival and street dedication.

Looking Ahead: Malcolm X Centennial Celebration

The breakfast serves as a precursor to the Malcolm X Centennial Celebration happening on May 17th. This upcoming event will feature:

• Dedication of the Malcolm X Corridor

• Exhibition of Sabir Majeed's photography

• Solidarity statements from leading activists, political figures, and educators

• Organic African fashion show

• A Save the Youth Save the World Concert, with tributes to Earth Wind & Fire, the Whispers, the Stylistics, Donny Hathaway and Bobby Womack to name a few.

• "I've Known Rivers" FILM Screenings featuring Malcolm X and other luminaries in Black History, taking place at Kaos Network (Ben Caldwell's place) in Leimert Park Black Arts Village

• Children's Activities, including bouncers, face painting and more.

Save the date and bring your family to join the May 17th celebration!