When Farrakhan tries to shift attention toward the government, particularly the FBI and the New York Police Department, who had been following Malcolm closely for years, Attallah erupts. Thirty-five years of anguish come pouring out. In other words, while steadfastly maintaining that he did not participate in the plot against Malcolm X, Farrakhan is now willing to allow that his words, at least, did play a significant role. Yes, words matter. Words can inspire.
Words can move people to action.
Words cannot kill by themselves, but they can move others to violence, as several tragic rampages by racist gunmen, black and white, have demonstrated over the past couple of years. During its 70-year history, the Nation of Islam has helped many lost souls redeem lives that have been damaged by drugs, crime, prostitution and other sins. But under Farrakhan's leadership its positive message too often has been corrupted by cheap shots and group libels, particularly against Jews. Now, late in life, maybe Farrakhan detects, as Malcolm used to say, that his chickens are coming home to roost. Pulitzer Prize-winning columnist Clarence Page addresses the social, economic and political issues affecting Americans.