Illinois College student curates Malcolm X exhibit at Jacksonville African American History Museum
A story about Illinois College faculty publishing a book on his orchid research was featured in an article in the Jacksonville Journal-Courier on August 4, 2025.
To read the full story written by Samantha McDaniel-Ogletree, visit myjournalcourier.com
On the first tour she gave as an intern at Jacksonville African American History Museum, an Illinois College student found inspiration for her own exhibit.
Jiech Bel, an IC senior, went on to curate “The Evolution of Malcolm X: A Global Legacy and Journey of Transformation,” which highlights the life, growth and evolution of Malcolm X.
The exhibit opened Wednesday and will be on display during the museum's normal hours.
"The inspiration came during my very first tour at the Jacksonville African American History Museum," Bel said. "A guest asked why Malcolm X wasn’t featured. That question stuck with me especially because I was born in Omaha, Nebraska — the same city Malcolm was born in. I felt a personal connection and a responsibility to tell his story, especially the parts that are often overlooked — his travels, his evolving faith, and his growth as a global leader."
The display follows Malcolm X — a human rights activist and prominent leader in the civil rights movement who was assassinated in 1965 — through six cities that influenced who he was and what he believed.
To read the full story written by Samantha McDaniel-Ogletree, visit myjournalcourier.com