This story was originally published in the summer 2016 issue of This Land.
In late March 1963, field minister Arthur 7-X held a press conference in Oklahoma City. Nation of Islam travelers had visited and spread their message in Oklahoma since the 1940s, but Arthur 7-X’s press conference was the NOI’s first publicized event.
“The world of Islam is coming into its own… and no force can stop it!” 7-X told the Daily Oklahoman. “We are seeking freedom and equality… We want something better; we can’t wait any longer.” 7-X was asked about the number of Muslims in Oklahoma and about the possible opening of a mosque.
Throughout the 1960s adherence to the NOI grew in Oklahoma City. A group met in houses and occasionally hosted a traveling minister.
Theodore G. X. arrived in Oklahoma City from Memphis in early 1969. A penniless family man in his mid-30s, he began squatting in a vacant house. He quickly cultivated the image of a “black militant” and sported an afro. Later, he claimed to have been sent to Oklahoma City by the Honorable Elijah Muhammad and that his early days in the city were spent “undercover.” Over the next few years, he established himself as the leader of Nation of Islam in Oklahoma City and founded Temple #50, which met in a storefront at 8th and Lottie. The “real worker and soldier,” Captain Franklin 4-X and his wife Joyce assisted the effort. Oklahoma City’s black Muslim community grew rapidly under G. X.’s charismatic leadership and 4-X’s experience and organizational skill. Temple #50 followed the established NOI model of opening black-run business enterprises and being involved in local civil rights struggles.
He controlled Muslim-owned businesses on the city’s northeast side, including a fish market, a school and Muhammad’s Temple of Islam at NE 23 and N Kate Avenue. Known for his dapper appearance, activism and oratorical skills, he was a familiar figure at city council meetings. “He was quite vocal and got lots of media attention every time he opened his mouth,” said Willa Johnson, county commissioner. “He had a lot of respect in the community,” said George Wesley, a former television cameraman. “Respect derived from fear, because no one wanted to go against him.” Police compared the controversial minister to a gang leader and suspected his involvement in crimes. Alfred Brooks, one of his followers, accused him of fatally shooting Judy Webb and injuring Karen Trantham. Theodore G. X. was not charged, and no other allegations against him were proven.