The Erickson Kiva was at capacity for the 2nd Annual Malcolm X Muslim Studies Community Forum on Wednesday, January 25th. Students, faculty and staff, community members and their families braved snowy weather to hear from special guest speakers in the same location Malcolm X gave his "The Race Problem in America" speech in 1963. 

Muslim scholars Omar Suleiman and Abdullah Oduro spoke on the life and legacy of Malcolm X. 

One of the themes Oduro spoke on was how faith is a journey, and how Malcolm X's evolution throughout his life was an example of that. 

"Learning the life of Malcom X put it all together for me," Oduro said. "It opened my eyes to the reality of Islam as a holistic religion, as a religion that considers everyone, as a religion that is not confined to a particular person." 

Suleiman spoke on Malcolm X's ideology on white supremacy, and his commitment to truth and sincerity in his work.  

“Malcolm did not have the tools of greatness, but he had a sincerity that allowed him to surpass even those who had every tool at their disposal," Suleiman said. 

Nadir Hamid, a Comparative Cultures and Politics major and the Chief Diversity Equity and Inclusion Officer for ASMSU, helped plan and promote the event. Hamid said events like this series are amazing opportunities for community building and learning. 

"This event goes beyond race and religion and specifically focuses on the concept of struggle and how to push forward despite challenges," Hamid said.

This program was supported by the family of Iltefat Hamzavi, M.D. A dermatologist from the east side of the state, a proud Wolverine, and a father of an MSU alum, Hamzavi said he was happy to support this MSU program and the opportunity it provides for learning. 

"Religion isn't a bunch of rituals," Hamzavi said. "It's the ability to take vastly diverse ideas and people, harmonize them, reduce conflict, and walk forward."

You can help bring more expert speakers to campus for events like this one -- support the Muslim Studies Program by donating today.