NEW ORLEANS—Thirty-one years after the historic Million Man March, the message the Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan delivered on October 16, 1995, continues to inspire a new generation.
To help preserve that legacy, Muhammad Mosque No. 46 in New Orleans recently held its Second Annual Historic Million Man March Essay Contest, challenging young people nationwide to study Minister Farrakhan’s address and examine its relevance today.
Sister Alaylah Rashad of Chicago earned first place and Brother Malik X of New Orleans received second place.
Under the theme “The Million Man March: More Than a Moment in History,” contestants explained the gathering’s historical significance, analyzed at least two quotations from Minister Farrakhan’s address, and demonstrated why his message remains important.
Participants submitted original, two-page essays without the assistance of artificial intelligence. Research materials included the original March footage, Minister Farrakhan’s speech transcript, and historical coverage published by The Final Call.
First-place winner Sister Alaylah distinguished herself through a thoughtful examination of atonement, personal responsibility, and unity.
One of the essay judges, Brother Sedrick Muhammad praised her essay for its organization, effective use of Minister Farrakhan’s words, and direct treatment of the contest’s central themes.
Sister Alaylah explained that she began her writing process by watching the recorded address and identifying what she believed were Minister Farrakhan’s principal messages.
“To me, the historical significance of the March was not just a gathering but a gateway to speak to the fathers, sons, and husbands of our community,” she said. “I wanted to clearly express that the goal was for us to work together and on ourselves to build a better nation.”
Reflecting on her first-place finish, Sister Alaylah expressed gratitude while emphasizing her desire for continued growth. “I want to stay humble about my win and use this achievement to encourage myself to improve my writing skills and further expand on my knowledge,” she said.
Second-place winner, Brother Malik, examined Minister Farrakhan’s call for accountability, emphasizing the responsibilities of both individuals and government. His essay explored the importance of acknowledging wrongdoing, making amends, and confronting injustices that continue to affect Black communities.
For Brother Malik, participating in the contest provided an opportunity to deepen his understanding of an event he had frequently heard discussed as a registered member of the Nation of Islam and a student in the ministry class.
“I had a lot of fun writing my essay!” he shared. “As a registered member of the Nation of Islam, who is also in the Student Ministry Class, I hear a lot of people teaching on the Million Man March during my course of study. However, this is the most in-depth I have been able to go in understanding just how monumental the Million Man March was and is.”
Brother Malik explained that he was introduced to the Teachings of the Most Honorable Elijah Muhammad around the 30th Anniversary of the Million Man March in 2025.
“Revisiting this a year later with the mind of a Muslim has opened up new understandings for me on who it is I say I follow,” he said. He also credited the writing experience with helping him more closely examine the impact of Minister Farrakhan’s work on America.
For Student Minister Willie Muhammad, the contest represents an effort to ensure that the Million Man March is understood not simply as a remarkable gathering, but as a significant spiritual and historical event.
“The idea behind this essay contest is to help keep the legacy of the historic Million Man March alive and to make sure that future generations continue to learn about this historic gathering,” he said.
“The Million Man March was also a bearing of witness to the presence of Allah (God) and His Servants in our midst. We do not want our young people to simply know that a million Black men gathered in Washington, D.C. We want them to understand why they gathered, what Minister Farrakhan taught that day, and what responsibility is placed upon us today.”
Minister Farrakhan’s call for atonement, reconciliation, responsibility and self-improvement remains as relevant today as it was in 1995. Through the contest, organizers hope to encourage young people to study these principles and apply them in their lives and communities.
Participation increased in this year’s competition. In recognition of their efforts, contestants who did not place first or second were given appreciation gifts.
Muhammad Mosque No. 46 expressed gratitude to the donors who supported the competition and the six judges who volunteered their time: Sister Michelle Muhammad, Brother Sedrick Muhammad, Brother Gilbert Muhammad, Sister Nandi Muhammad, and Sister Phyllis X of New Orleans, and Sister Angela Muhammad of Jacksonville, Florida.
Above all, organizers thanked every young person who accepted the challenge to study the Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan’s historic message.
—Submitted by Student Minister Willie Muhammad of Mosque No. 46 in New Orleans
