Civil rights leader Malcolm X becomes 1st Black honoree in Nebraska Hall of Fame

By The Associated Press and Lakshmi Gandhi, NBC News

Fifteen years after he was rejected as too controversial, the Omaha native was selected in a 4-3 vote by members of the Nebraska Hall of Fame Commission.

Malcolm X speaks to reporters in Washington, D.C., on May 16, 1963. (AP file)

Fifteen years after being rejected as too controversial, Malcolm X is the first Black honoree to be inducted into the Nebraska Hall of Fame.

The organization’s commission selected the civil rights icon on Monday with a 4-3 vote, edging out the late University of Nebraska educator and author Louise Pound.

“Malcolm X used the lessons he learned early in life and his intellectual power, dedication and perseverance in the fight for freedom and equality for all during the civil rights movement in America,” said commission chairman Ron Hull. “His work and his legacy continue to impact the citizens of the world.”

Discover what it took for the activist to earn this recognition.

Although many people know Malcolm, fewer are aware of his mother’s activism.

Check out other Black culture and history articles.

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