Malcolm X made significant contributions to the civil rights discourse by advocating for black empowerment, racial pride, and self-defense. As a prominent leader in the Nation of Islam, he emphasized the need for African Americans to reclaim their identity and challenge systemic oppression. His fiery speeches and writings encouraged a sense of urgency about racial justice, influencing younger generations during the civil rights movement. After his pilgrimage to Mecca, he began promoting more inclusive messages of solidarity. Malcolm X’s legacy remains influential in discussions about race and social justice.