Honor Malcolm X Day in the Workplace
Looking for a quick, actionable way to observe Malcolm X Day at work? This post gives you a fast, DIY DEI tip you can apply right now.
Malcolm X Day, observed in some U.S. cities and states on or around May 19, commemorates the birthday of El-Hajj Malik El-Shabazz—better known as Malcolm X. A visionary leader, truth-teller, and fierce advocate for Black dignity and liberation, Malcolm X challenged systemic racism with urgency and clarity.
In the workplace, this day is an invitation to honor truth, question systems, and center justice. Here’s why that matters.
Why This Holiday Matters
Malcolm X Day isn’t widely recognized—but it should be. Here’s how it connects to equity and accountability at work:
✅ It surfaces voices that have been sidelined—especially those that challenge power directly.
✅ It invites honest conversations about race, resistance, and workplace equity.
✅ It challenges organizations to move from diversity optics to racial justice action.
✅ It reminds us that inclusion must include truth—even when it’s uncomfortable.
Observing Malcolm X Day means honoring the kind of leadership that speaks truth to power—and applying it in our own spheres of influence.
One Inclusive Celebration Idea
Try this simple, inclusive activity to mark Malcolm X Day at work:
Host a Justice & Leadership Learning Circle
Here’s how:
Select a short quote, video clip, or excerpt from one of Malcolm X’s speeches. Some starting points:“You can’t have capitalism without racism.”, “If you’re not ready to die for it, put the word ‘freedom’ out of your vocabulary.”
Invite a small group to reflect on the quote using prompts like:“What systems or assumptions does this challenge in our workplace?” “What does courageous leadership look like in our context?”
Ensure the space is guided, voluntary, and facilitated with care.
Offer resources for those who want to learn more—like the Malcolm X Digital Project or the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture.
This activity centers legacy, learning, and leadership that doesn’t flinch from hard truths.
Ready to explore more workplace-ready tips? Keep reading.
Ready for More?
Would you like a more detailed celebration guide for this holiday? Join our Free Community Here Inside, you’ll find DIY DEI guides, a full diversity calendar, and practical tools to help you build an inclusive workplace—without overwhelm.
Pause & Reflect
How can your workplace honor voices that challenge the status quo—not just those that comfort it?
