Malcolm X is the largest historical figure to be born in the state of Nebraska.
Malcolm X was born in Omaha in 1925. He was driven from Nebraska as a small child after racist violence against his family. But nothing can change the fact that he was born in Nebraska. This seems to give Nebraska an iconic status to everybody in the world except Nebraskans, if you let the Historical Society selection committee tell it.
The Autobiography of Malcolm X has been one of the most widely-read autobiographies in the world since 1965. His life is recognized as one of the greatest examples of human redemption from criminality and degradation to global leadership and respect. There are colleges, schools, streets, parks, boulevards and postage stamps, in America, Africa and Europe commemorating Malcolm X.
His legacy is ours to claim for the one reason nobody else can. He's a Nebraskan. We support his induction in the Nebraska Hall of Fame.
We the undersigned request The Nebraska Hall of Fame Commission, the official body responsible for the evaluation of candidates and the bestowal of the prestigious honor, select Nebraska Native Malik El Shabazz (Malcolm X) for induction into this State's Hall of Fame.
Nebraskans possess a strong sense of community and identity. Malcolm X has had a profoundly positive impact within a wide variety of communities and people of various demographics and backgrounds identify with his legacy.
The Nebraska Hall of Fame was established almost 50 years ago to officially recognize prominent Nebraskans. As native Nebraskans, transplanted Nebraskans, new residents and visitors from around the globe remind us, one very prominent Nebraskan has been overlooked. Malcolm X should join the remarkable group of Nebraskans, whose legacy remains a source of state pride and inspiration.
