Comparing MLK And Malcolm X

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In the 1950s and 1960s, America saw significant changes in civil rights and gender and race roles. Many brave voices, mostly from people of color, spoke out despite the risks of sharing their beliefs. Figures such as Martin Luther King Jr., A. Philip Randolph, and Malcolm X stood out during this time. In this essay, we will explore two of their impactful speeches: MLK's "I Have a Dream" and Malcolm X's "The Chickens Come Home to Roost." These speeches, though different, have remained so important in shaping our understanding of the civil rights movement. We will discuss how they continue to spark movements and conversations, especially concerning Malcolm X's ideas. In MLK Jr.'s "I Have a Dream" speech, delivered on August 28, 1963, he passionately …show more content…

Despite their different tactics, both leaders played crucial roles in advancing the cause of civil rights, sparking important conversations about the course of resistance and liberation in America, but sometimes not all talk surrounding him was good. At one point in his speech, he says “I'm for truth, no matter who tells it”. I'm for justice, no matter who it's for or against." In my opinion, this quote shows Malcolm X's uncompromising stance on truth and justice, which probably unsettled some individuals or groups who were not aligned with all of his views or methods. Though even when uncomfortable, he boldly confronts the hypocrisy of American society, stating, "America preaches integration and practices segregation," he talks much about the strong contrast between America's words and actions. He highlights the hypocrisy of American ideals, and urges listeners to confront the systemic injustices experienced daily, and even appreciated by some. Malcolm X's uncompromising stance on truth and justice echoes throughout his speech, and serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggle for racial equality. And while many agreed with him, many did not. Malcolm X speaks very strongly about America, and even how she will fall because of her “sins”. This was hard for many to hear considering much of the country was mourning the assassination of President John F Kennedy.. Many believed his words were “cold”, but he believed JFK was just reaping what he had sewn. That is where the title “The Chickens Come Home to Roost”, by definition it means “our past mistakes or wrongdoings have come back to cause us problems.” X is insinuating JFKs actions made it back to him and his death is what he deserves. Kennedy had his moments, he was even viewed as a “hero” by a few after saving some Navy crew after a boating accident. But he also had his rough patches. and

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