Following the racially-charged 1964 United Kingdom general election, which saw debates over race and immigration intensify, Malcolm X traveled to Smethwick, a suburb of Birmingham, to connect with local Black communities. The election had highlighted significant racial tensions in the UK, particularly evident in places like Smethwick, where the victory of Conservative candidate Peter Griffiths was, in part, attributed to his appeal to anti-immigrant sentiment. In this context, Malcolm X’s visit was both symbolic and practical; he sought to galvanize support and encourage activism among Black Britons who faced their own struggles against discrimination.

During his visit, Malcolm X interacted with local residents, delivering speeches that called for unity among people of African descent. His rhetoric echoed themes of empowerment, self-determination, and the fight against systemic racism. By using his platform to address the specific challenges faced by Black communities in the UK, Malcolm X effectively broadened the narrative of the civil rights struggle, tying American civil rights issues to those in Britain. His visit was marked by a significant turnout, illustrating the shared resonance of the fight for equality that spanned across the Atlantic.

Malcolm X's engagement in Smethwick was not only about rallying support but also about fostering a dialogue around racial justice in Britain. He urged attendees to take a stand against racism, advocating for solidarity among marginalized communities. The visit sparked interest and concern among political leaders and organizations regarding the state of race relations in the UK and initiated further discussion on how to address these complex issues in a multicultural society.