Omaha-born human rights leader Malcolm X inducted into Nebraska Hall of Fame
Omaha-born human rights leader Malcolm X became the first Black person inducted into the Nebraska Hall of Fame.
In a ceremony at the state Capitol Wednesday, Malcolm X's bronze bust was unveiled by one of his six daughters, Dr. Ilyasah Shabazz, of New York, and sculptor Nathan Murray.
"I am humbled and honored by the embrace of the residents of Nebraska. Thank you so much. Let Malcolm's dedication to truth and justice inspire us all," Shabazz said.
Born Malcolm Little in Omaha, his family was forced to flee after facing threats from white supremacists.
After his father, Rev. Earl Little, was murdered, Malcolm fell into a life of crime and served time in prison. There, he became self-educated and converted to Islam.
His work fighting injustice and autobiography continue to inspire new generations.
Malcolm X Foundation executive director JoAnna LeFlore-Ejike said the induction will help tell the full story of Malcolm X.
"He evolved into the human rights hero we know and love today," LeFlore-Ejike said.
The effort to recognize Malcolm also took perseverance and transformation from this state.
This was the third time his name was nominated.
"I love having Nebraskans cheered. It says that we really have come a long way," Shabazz said.
Gov. Jim Pillen proclaimed May 22 as Malcolm X Day in Nebraska.
"Malcolm X was an American civil rights advocate and, to many, one of the most renowned figures in civil rights history," Pillen said.
Former state senator Ernie Chambers met Malcolm X in Omaha in 1964, prior to his assassination in February 1965.
Chambers, 88, reflected on what this day meant to him.
"I never thought I'll live long enough to see a white conservative Republican governor in a white, ultra-conservative state like Nebraska participate in the induction of Malcolm X into the Nebraska Hall of Fame," Chambers said.
Malcolm X's bust will be displayed in the Capitol rotunda for several weeks and later moved to the southwest hallway next to the legislative chamber.