Annapolis, Maryland – February 18, 2015- A half-century after the death of El-Hajj Malik El-Shabazz better known to the world as Malcolm X, a consortium of civil rights organizations, clergy and elected and appointed officials will meet on Saturday, February 21, 2015, in the State Capitol to honor the legacy of Malcolm X.

Malcolm X who was born Malcolm Little on May 19, 1925, converted to Islam and became an orthodox Muslim prior to his assassination on February 21, 1965 in New York City.

Malcolm X, who wrote his autobiography along with the late renowned author Alex Haley is listed as one of the most popular twentieth century African-American leaders.

Malcolm X is often contrasted with Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. However, both men had more in common than is generally known. Both men were assassinated at the age of 39. Both men were reared by Baptist ministers.

Both men became internationally known as human rights activists. Both at the end of their lives advocated brotherhood. Both were victims of illegal surveillance by the United States government and both left widows to raise their children.

Two of Malcolm X’s daughters have spoken in Annapolis to large audiences and Malcolm Shabazz, the grandson of Malcolm X spoke in Annapolis prior to his own tragic death in Mexico several years ago.

The tribute to Malcolm is a statewide celebration. It will feature speakers, a panel discussion, music and poetry by Messiah Ramkissoon.

Imam Talib M. Shareef , President, Masjid Muhammad, Inc., the Nation’s Mosque also will bring remarks. Imam Shareef leads the mosque that Malcolm once led in Washington, D.C.

The two hour-celebration will take place at the historic Wiley H. Bates Legacy Center, 1101 Smithville Street, Annapolis, Maryland and there will be a light fare. There is no admission charge and the event is open to the public.

Some of the organizers of the event include Darrius Stanton, lead organizer, Shuaib Neel, Vince Leggett, Erica Mathews, Cynthia Abney Carter, Chris Smooth, Kojo Snowden, David J. Harris, Jeffrey C. Henderson, Kirby McKinney, Dr. Bruce Purnell, Ronnie Blackstone, Sasia Neel, and Carl O. Snowden.

One of the organizers, Shuaib Neel, and one of the founders of the Concerned Muslims of Annapolis, provided security for Malcolm X whenever he spoke in Chicago.

Mr. Neel will be participating in a panel discussion on the legacy of Malcolm X along with businessman Troy Stansbury, Jeffrey C. Henderson, Dr. Bruce Purnell and Reagan Parker. The panel discussion will be moderated by Mr. Snowden.

“Malcolm X help to create so many thaumaturges in our community “said Mr. Snowden. He further stated, “Few people realize the influence that Malcolm had on our society. Even President Obama has spoken about the influence that Malcolm had on his life”.

Darrius Stanton said, ” We intend to celebrate Malcolm’s legacy by having 50 men commit to helping young African-American males in our community”, said Mr. Stanton.

He further stated, ” The best way to honor the memory of Malcolm is to pick up the mantle of leadership. Malcolm was a true thaumaturge and we intend to create more traumaturges in his image”.

In the State of Maryland, there are schools, streets and buildings named after the late human rights activist. In the State Capitol there is a plaque that was erected in honor of Malcolm X. It is the only plaque in the city in his memory.

For more information call Mr. Stanton at 410-703-1898 or Mr. Snowden at 443-871-5656.