From Sepia magazine, May 1975
Many know and remember Minister Louis Farrakhan as the man who organized the Million Man March in Washington, DC on October 16, 1995. Perhaps the largest gathering of African-American men in any one place, it served as a monumental event for those within the Black community, yet controversial for others who didn’t understand its intention. Minister Farrakhan was “inspired to call the March out of his concern over the negative image of Black men perpetuated by the media and movie industries, which focused on drugs and gang violence.” Present at the gathering were notable figures including Rosa Parks, Maya Angelou and Al Sharpton, promoting unity, accountability and responsibility among Black men and the families that depended on them.
This is a labor of love. I love black people and that’s why I don’t have to use notes. Have you ever seen a man in love refer to his notes when he’s talking to the one he loves? Well, I’m in love with my black brothers and sisters and I don’t need notes because what I say is from my heart, not a notebook.
Not a newcomer, Farrakhan has spent years promoting the upliftment of the Black community in speeches across the country. Originally known as Louis X, he later rose in rank within the Nation, becoming an influential leader in his own right. A dedicated student and follower of the late Elijah Muhammad, his predecessor, he continued to lead those who chose to remain in the Nation of Islam while Warith Deen Mohammed, Elijah Muhammad’s son, transitioned others to Sunni Islam upon his passing. This 1975 Sepia article written by Sterling X Hobbs presents a depiction of Farrakhan as a magnetic personality, before and after joining the Nation, providing a view of the man behind the persona he was known for during the 70’s.