“The Conversation” was performed on the Rhodes State Campus with Reverend Dr. John H. McCants, Jr. on the left playing Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Buddy Hannah on the right playing Malcolm X.
Dean Brown | The Lima News
LIMA — One of the men urged his fellow Black Americans to defend themselves by any means necessary against what he viewed as repression from white Americans. The other man famously stood for Black civil rights while invoking nonviolence of the spirit as well as the body. So what would the two luminaries have to say to each other?
The play, “The Conversation” was performed at Rhodes State College as part of a Black history celebration. The play asks you to imagine a conversation between two great civil rights leaders of the 1950’s and 60’s.
The role of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was portrayed by the Reverend Dr. John H. McCants, Jr, pastor of St. Paul African Methodist Episcopal Church in Lima. Malcolm X was portrayed by Buddy Hannah, a published poet from Kalamazoo. There were times when the two civil rights leaders were in physical proximity to each other, but whether or not a conversation ever actually took place is uncertain.
The play brought out the beliefs of the two civil right leaders. Throughout the conversation, the audience was able to gain insight into the similarities and differences of the two great leaders.
King’s philosophy was a powerful and inspiring vision of a more just and equitable world, based on the principles of nonviolence, love and social responsibility. His legacy continues to inspire people around the world to work towards a more just and peaceful future.
Malcolm X’s philosophy was a complex and evolving one that reflected his experiences and his commitment to fighting for racial justice and human dignity. Throughout his life, Malcolm X’s philosophy underwent significant transformations, influenced by his religious beliefs, political experiences and personal growth.
The two leaders were both religious, but they had different backgrounds and beliefs. Malcolm X was a Muslim who advocated for Black nationalism, while King was a Baptist minister who emphasized the principles of Christian love and brotherhood.
Malcolm X advocated Black pride and self-defense, while Martin Luther King Jr. preached nonviolence and integration. They both were instrumental in bringing attention to the injustices facing Black Americans in the 50’s and 60’s and working to achieve a more equitable society.
Reach Dean Brown at 567-242-0409
