The Brief But Important Meeting Between MLK And Malcolm X

malcolm x and mlk standing together with police presence
Via flickr
Tremain Prioleau II
January 16, 2025

The ideological divide between Dr. King and Malcolm X led many to believe that a good relationship between the two wouldn’t be possible. Malcolm’s more militant approach contrasted with King's emphasis on non-violence. The world pitted them against each other, but Malcolm had other ideas.

The two men attended a senate hearing on legislation to end segregation in employment and on public property and spaces. Malcolm saw King outside the Capitol building and rushed over to meet him.

The meeting lasted only a few minutes. Still, Malcolm told Dr. King, “I’m throwing myself into the heart of the civil rights struggle,” expressing his dedication to the Civil Rights movement. But why did he feel the need to pledge support?

Malcolm X left the Nation of Islam on March 26, 1964,  just a few weeks before meeting King. He left because he felt the group needed to take a more active role in the civil rights struggle. Malcolm understood the movement needed their combined efforts to succeed.

We are stronger together. The system understands the power we have in numbers. MLK and Malcolm X teaming up would have done wonders for the liberation movement. We must continue in their absence, putting our differences aside and working together toward liberation.

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