Malik Books: From Devastation to Elevation - 1/9/2023

Conversation Overview

Join us for the first Messy Conversation of the Winter session with Malik and April Muhammad, co-owners of Malik Books, a Black-owned independent bookstore that specializes in African American books, calendars, and gifts full of cultural diversity. Malik Books is the total African American expression of pride, cultural and self-esteem, giving voice to the voiceless. Since 1990 Malik Books has served the Los Angeles community with books and cultural gifts and has recently launched a podcast and Malik’s Bookmobile to continue outreach to promote reading and education.

Malik Muhammad - Born in DC, graduate from USC.  Former 1984 Olympian in track and field.  Youth Development sprint coach setting National records in the 4x 100 relay.  As a Mortgage Consultant helped hundreds of people become home owners.  VP of Crusader Praise Scott Scholarship Fund for freshman entering into college.  First and foremost a book activist since 1990 as the founder and co owner of Malik Books.

Aprilia Muhammad  - A mother, A wife, A Nurse and Co-Owner of Malik Books.  Born in Los Angeles and graduate from nursing school as a RN. Competed in Body Building competition and actively promotes fitness and health as a coach.  Helping people and spending time with family is what I love most in life.

Dr. Elaine Parker- Gills is an adjunct professor at Antioch University Los Angeles. She has extensive experience teaching African American Studies courses in the Undergraduate Studies division, as well as courses in the graduate Education Department.  Dr. Gills also served as Vice-President of Community Engagement at Community Build, Inc. and is the founder of the W.E.B. DuBois Academic Institute.  Additionally, Dr. Gills is a guest lecturer, consultant, and community activist.