Regarding Obama's preacher: What do Democrats think of Malcolm X?

[theboss]

Obviously, there is a world of difference Jeremiah Wright and Malcolm X - theology being the difference. And from what I can tell, he is not a black separatist.

However, any time I start hearing black nationalism creep through a speech or sermon, I think of Malcolm.

So, in general, my question is, "What do Dems think of Malcolm X and his legacy?"

Do we see value in his messages of self-sufficiency, self-respect, and self-control? Do we view him as a racist? A reformed racist?

In general, do we find black nationalism alarming? Empowering? Necessary? Evil? Necessary evil?

Had he not been murdered, Macolm would be 82 so its possible that he could have been a political force throughout the 80s, 90s, and even today. Would Democrats have moved towards him?

[BeyondGeography]

1. The Autobiography of Malcolm X is an indispensable book about America

Malcolm was on the trajectory of unity at the time of his death; he went to Mecca shortly before he was killed and saw that pigmentation was not the barrier that we make it out to be. He was able to connect to humanity through his faith.

He would love Obama, and I'm sure Obama loves him. Unfortunately, too few Americans even open themselves up to the journey Malcolm took, and he remains a mysterious and intimidating figure to many whose earlier statements are often used to marginalize and dehumanize him.

[WolverineDG]

2. He renounced his separatist views before he died

I think it's a shame that he was assassinated. Who knows what he could have accomplished once he came back from Mecca? Instead, he's forever linked with the violence & racism he had earlier advocated but had renounced before he died.

The book is a remarkable read. You can see him progress from a barely educated hoodlum to a well-read, self-educated thinker & activist as the book goes along.

dg

[ellacott]

3. Sadly some view him as a racist

One poster on this board called him a racist. They are not familiar with his transformation. He also changed his name to reflect this transformation.

Whenever some people hear about civil rights activistsm, black nationalism or afrocentricity they think the groups are racists or hatemongers. This is very untrue but what people don't understand they fear.

Black nationalism is empowering.

[IndianaJones]

4. I think his views evolved throughout his life. nt.

[WinkyDink]

5. I view Malcolm X as an American hero. And yes, I've read his book.

And lived through his time.