Black History

Historic Malcolm X Letter On JFK’s Assassination Sells For $11,344

A rare 1963 letter penned by Malcolm X after his suspension from the Nation of Islam following JFK remarks sold for $11,344, revealing his unyielding beliefs and iconic defiance in a moment of controversy.
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LOS ANGELES

An important typed letter signed by Malcolm X, penned just days after his controversial “chickens coming home to roost” comments regarding President John F. Kennedy’s assassination sold for $11,344 by Nate D. Sanders Auctions on Thursday evening (April 24).

Dated December 11, 1963, the letter provides remarkable insight into Malcolm X’s mindset following the public outcry and his subsequent 90-day suspension from public speaking by Nation of Islam leader Elijah Muhammad.

Written on his personal Malik Shabazz Islamic stationery, Malcolm X responds to an encouraging letter to Gloria Owens-Maceo X Owens’ sister.

Maceo X. Owens was the secretary at Muhammad’s Mosque No. 7 in Harlem where Malcolm X preached alongside Louis Farrakhan.

In the letter, he directly addresses his situation: “I am still the Minister of Muhammad’s Mosque but my speaking and public appearances have been curtailed ‘suspended’ for an indefinite period. I have kept a very fast pace and this is the only way I could ever get any rest.”

He further employs a powerful metaphor, referencing his suspension and unwavering conviction: “The only way to stop a rooster from crowing is to stop the sun from rising. When the rooster sees the light by nature it is time for him to crow. Once we know who the devil is, it is difficult to keep all that light to ourselves. We just have to crow.”

Bidding for the letter began at $7,500.