Malcolm X's Family Works to Restore His Boston Home

BOSTON - The childhood home of civil rights leader Malcolm X, located on Dale Street in Roxbury, is undergoing a significant restoration effort led by his nephew, Rodnell Collins. Malcolm X lived in the three-story house from 1941 to 1944, and Collins aims to transform it into a fully functioning residence for graduate students, allowing them to learn within the same walls that shaped the iconic figure. The project is part of a broader initiative to honor Malcolm X's legacy and promote education. To complete the restoration, the Collins family is seeking to raise $4.5 million by the end of 2025. Once finished, this will mark the first time the public can access Malcolm X's childhood home, a site of historical significance for the Black community and civil rights movement. Local residents, including a man named Marius, express pride in the home's presence but also frustration over its current state, emphasizing the need for better care. The restoration efforts are supported by donations, as well as federal and state grants, focusing on essential repairs such as the roof and garage, while also ensuring the property is environmentally sustainable. Collins highlights that environmental conservation was a principle Malcolm X championed, making the project even more meaningful. Despite the challenges, Collins remains committed to the work, reflecting on the impact of his uncle's legacy and the importance of preserving this historical site.