An Early Happy Birthday for Malcolm X

Boston City Council unanimously approved a proposal to make Malcolm X’s birthday a municipal holiday in the city. The holiday would be on May 19th, Malcolm X’s birthday. The resolution also aims to renovate the Malcolm X – Ella Little Collins House and add it to the city’s Black Heritage Trail. 

Malcolm X, born Malcolm Little, and his sister Ella Collins moved to Roxbury in the 1940s, where they lived for years across from what is now recognized as Malcolm X Park. The 2 ½-story house is the only surviving residence associated with the slain civil rights leader’s formative years in the city, according to Massachusetts Secretary of State William Galvin. 

Malcolm X’s time in Boston was a formative period in his life. It was during this time that he developed his sense of identity, his commitment to social justice, and his powerful voice. 

The resolution now awaits approval from Mayor Michelle Wu.