Betty Shabazz was the wife of African-American civil rights activist Malcolm X. She played a significant role in supporting her husband’s work and advocating for social justice. Born on May 28, 1934, in Detroit, Michigan, as Betty Dean Sanders, she tied the knot with Malcolm X in 1958. Together, they had six children.
Betty Shabazz actively participated in the Nation of Islam (NOI) alongside her husband, but their lives took a tragic turn when Malcolm X was assassinated on February 21, 1965. After his death, Betty Shabazz devoted herself to raising their children and pursuing her education.
She went on to earn multiple degrees, including a bachelor’s degree in nursing and a doctorate in education. Throughout her life, she continued to advocate for civil rights, education, and social justice, working with various organizations and speaking publicly about her experiences.
Betty Shabazz passed away on June 23, 1997, due to injuries sustained in a fire at her home.