The Three Mothers: How the Mothers of Martin Luther King, Jr., Malcolm X, and James Baldwin Shaped a Nation

Content Warning: This section discusses racism, racial violence, and mental health crisis.

Louise and Earl continued their work as activists around the country as their family grew. They moved to Omaha, Nebraska to help the struggle after a race riot in 1919. However, intimidation and terror continued. One night, Louise, alone and pregnant at home with her children, was threatened by a group of white men. Despite her fears, she stood brave, confronting the men in front of her children. This memory would remain with her children who were proud of seeing their mother as an example of resistance against injustice with “radical courage.” Years later, the family acquired a farmhouse in Michigan. They were attacked again by white men who set fire to the place. Louise and Earl recovered, and Earl built a new house in another part of town. The couple continued their militancy, teaching their children about self-reliance and resilience. Young Malcolm loved cultivating the land. They equipped all their seven children with survival skills, inspiring them to continue their struggle for freedom.

The bond between Berdis and her son, James, was immediately strong. However, his stepfather’s mental health deteriorated. James’s early memories of him were feelings of love and pride, yet David’s despair and rage grew.