Unity Funeral Home in Harlem: A Place of Rememberance

When one thinks of significant events that took place in American history, Malcolm X's funeral is often overlooked. This may be due to the fact that there is no plaque or marker at Childs Memorial Temple Church, where the funeral took place. In 2013, when I visited this church, I noticed that not much had changed since 1965.

The eulogy delivered by Ossie Davis during Malcolm X's funeral was particularly poignant. It captured the feeling of loss and the ongoing significance of Malcolm's life to the African-American community. The service was attended by approximately 1,000 people, with many civil rights leaders in attendance, including Martin Luther King Jr.

Malcolm X's body was dressed in white linen, as per Muslim custom, before being laid to rest. However, it is interesting to note that his associates initially sought a Christian place of worship for the funeral service. This may have been due to a desire to avoid any controversy or association with Malcolm's controversial persona at the time.

Despite this, Bishop Alvin A. Childs' Faith Temple Church of God in Christ eventually agreed to host the funeral, despite receiving bomb threats immediately after the announcement. The church was later renamed 'Childs Memorial Temple Church of God in Christ' in honor of Bishop Childs.

The search for a suitable location for Malcolm X's funeral service was frantic and involved many churches and organizations. Ultimately, the funeral took place at Faith Temple Church on February 27th, 1965. While there is no plaque to commemorate this event today, the significance of Malcolm X's life and legacy continues to be felt in the African-American community.

In conclusion, Unity Funeral Home in Harlem may not have played a direct role in Malcolm X's funeral service, but it was an important location for many other significant events that took place during the Civil Rights Movement. The church remains a symbol of unity and resilience for the African-American community, and its history continues to inspire and educate people today.

Unity funeral home in harlem