Special to the Gazette
In commemoration of the 100th anniversary of Malcolm X’s birth, the city of Boston will host a unique two-day community read-a-thon of his influential autobiography. Nearly two hundred volunteers are set to participate in this first-ever marathon reading of the book in its entirety, taking place on Saturday, May 17, 2025, from 12 to 8 p.m., and Sunday, May 18, 2025, from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the Bruce C. Bolling Municipal Building, located at 2300 Washington St.
The event invites the public to experience Malcolm X’s powerful narrative through a collective voice. Following each day’s reading, a community dinner will be held, fostering connection and reflection. For those unable to attend in person, the entire read-a-thon will be live-streamed online.
Admission to the event is free and open to all. Attendees are welcome to listen for any portion of the two-day program, and participation as a reader is not required to attend.
Organizers explain that Malcolm X’s unwavering challenge to racial violence, his rejection of economic inequality, and his advocacy for the voiceless have made him an enduring figure for those committed to social justice and human rights. This group reading of his autobiography, which has inspired millions since its 1965 publication, aims to unite individual aspirations for a better future into a collective call for change.
Individuals interested in contributing as readers in this significant event can sign up through the official event website: https://malcolmxreadathonboston.com/.
The Malcolm X Read-a-thon is the vision of Rosalyn Elder, an architect, former bookstore owner, and entrepreneur associated with africanamericanheritagemassachusetts.com. A dedicated organizing committee of local artists, writers, organizers, and entrepreneurs, including Elder, Dosha Beard, Danny Harris, Carolyn Ingles, Parmie Polk, Mark Schafer, and Talia Whyte, is committed to ensuring the legacy of Malcolm X remains vibrant in Boston and beyond.
For further information, including media inquiries, the organizing committee can be reached at [email address removed]. Additional details and updates are available on the event website: https://malcolmxreadathonboston.com/.