The Metro: Detroit artist Mario Moore wants to give human rights leader Malcolm X the monument he never got
An executive order in place since March of 2025 set out to erase parts of American black history. Local artist Mario Moore is determined to preserve it.
Mario Moore (right) stands next to his Malcolm X clay sculpture with assistant Alonzo Edwards (left)
In March 2025, President Donald Trump passed an executive order to “restore truth and sanity” to American history. His administration has pressured the removal of “negative history”— which often surrounds the historic struggles of people of color—while restoring Confederate statues.
Meanwhile, a Detroit artist may be the first to create an outdoor public monument to honor Civil Rights leader Malcolm X.
Mario Moore is a multi-disciplinary artist from Detroit whose works are on display in museums and galleries across the country, including the Detroit Institute of Arts. He has a goal of erecting a 14-foot statue of Malcolm X. He believes Detroit is the perfect place to honor his life.
Moore was a student at Malcolm X Academy in the 90’s, where he learned why the leader fought for human rights. He remembers fondly mobs of angry adults, deeming the school bad for the community. The school even received death threats.
Moore plans to build a park that will be the permanent home for the monument in the Dexter/Linwood community. It’s a few blocks from Temple No. 1, where X practiced Islam.
He joined The Metro to discuss how his works are a mode of historical preservation and conversation starters.
Right now, the project is in its infancy, with a quarter of the funding raised. To support Moore and the Malcolm X Plaza, visit Canfield Consortium to learn more.
Hear the full conversation using the media player above.
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