FOI, First Fruit, First Responsibility: Building Men, Strengthening Communities
- Brother Levon X
- 4 days ago
- 5 min read
Answering the Call Within: Brother Earl X and the Quiet Work of Community Transformation: By Brother Levon X Community Reporting (BLXCR)
We recently had the honor of sitting down with a young brother whose journey stands as a quiet but powerful testimony to what happens when guidance, compassion, and opportunity meet a willing heart.
Unlike many narratives often highlighted in the media, this is not a story of gang initiation or street indoctrination. Instead, it is the story of a man who was introduced—early and intentionally—to the God within himself, and who chose a path rooted in service, discipline, and love for his community.
While transformation can come through many institutions—whether churches, mosques, or grassroots organizations—there is no denying the historic and ongoing impact of the Nation of Islam within the Black community. Within the Nation exist several branches dedicated to community uplift, and today we highlight one such effort: First Fruit, a program orchestrated by Brother Frank Muhammad.
Through the guidance of committed brothers, unseen but tireless work is being done daily. These are the stories that rarely make headlines—but they matter.
One of those stories belongs to Brother Earl X.
BLXCR: Brother Earl, what first drew you to the Nation of Islam?
Brother Earl X: I was living in Alexandria at the time, and I still do. I had a neighbor, Brother Chaz X Martin. He lived just a few doors down from me. I would often see him and his family coming and going, and I’d be sitting out on my front porch. One day, he introduced himself, and I introduced myself to him.
We had a good conversation—about life, about purpose, and about what the Nation of Islam stood for. He explained the mission and the cause, and eventually invited me to come out and see what was going on at Muhammad Mosque No. 4 in Washington, D.C.
I went out, visited, and I just kept coming back. I attended for about a year before officially starting orientation. I first began coming around in the summer of 2024, and my first major outing was during the winter of that year. Eventually, I entered orientation, stayed consistent, and on March 31, 2025, I officially became a member of the Nation of Islam.
Seeing the Community Through New Eyes
BLXCR: As a new member, what stood out to you about the needs of the community once you became involved in the work?
Brother Earl X: Before joining the Nation, I already had a strong sense of Black identity. I knew it wasn’t right for Black people to harm one another. My mother raised us with that mindset—she was very Black-oriented and always tried to help Black people first, though she helped others as well. That was instilled in us at home.
But I’ll be honest—I never truly understood the depth of the problems we were facing as a people. I grew up around public housing and thought that was just normal. Drug use, poverty—I thought it was just something that came with the world.
Once I joined the Nation of Islam, I was introduced to The Final Call newspaper. At first, I thought it was just a way to generate income. But as I grew and became involved in programs—especially door-to-door outreach in partnership with the D.C. Housing Authority—I began to see clearly.
I learned how we ended up in these conditions. I learned that Black people were, in many ways, being conditioned to destroy one another—mentally, spiritually, and physically. That realization changed me. The work wasn’t just outreach; it was education and awakening.
The Power of The Final Call
BLXCR: What was your first experience reading The Final Call, and what do you believe people can gain from it?
Brother Earl X: I work a lot. I don’t watch the news, I don’t follow sports, and I don’t spend much time on TV. When I get home, I’m focused on rest and recovery. So when The Final Call was placed in my hands, it filled a gap I didn’t even realize existed.
It showed me what was happening in the world—things I never saw on mainstream news. I began to understand global politics, especially America’s relationship with Muslim countries, and why certain conflicts existed. It wasn’t surface-level reporting; it provided context and truth.
What stood out most is that The Final Call speaks directly to Black people. It covers our conditions, our struggles, and our responsibility. It isn’t entertainment—it’s a wake-up call. To me, it truly feels like a paper rooted in divine purpose.
First Fruit and the Work at Potomac Gardens
BLXCR: You work closely with First Fruit at Potomac Gardens in Washington, D.C. What has that experience been like?
Brother Earl X: It’s been one of the most fulfilling experiences of my life. I worked with youth programs, especially the WPF program, where young brothers were taught to read, recite, and even deliver radio-style news forecasts. Watching children gain confidence in themselves—that’s powerful.
I saw programs for young sisters as well, where they were being taught literacy and life skills. It really felt like a village in action. Brother Frank Muhammad leads with love and compassion, and the community recognizes that.
When we went door-to-door, people already knew who Brother Frank was. We were welcomed—not feared. That alone speaks volumes about the impact of the work.
A Moment That Stood Out
BLXCR: Was there a moment that truly stayed with you?
Brother Earl X: Yes. We organized a T-shirt fundraiser where the proceeds went directly back into the community. Watching young brothers learn how to engage with people, explain a purpose, and earn honestly—it showed them how to “do for self.”
That’s what First Fruit represents. It’s not charity—it’s empowerment.
Looking Ahead
BLXCR: Where do you see yourself in five to ten years?
Brother Earl X: I want to be a reliable, influential brother—someone who contributes, not burdens. I want to help strengthen programs like First Fruit, support MUI( Muhammad University of Islam), and continue distributing The Final Call as a tool of awakening.
In five years, I don’t just want to be “the young brother.” I want to be a pillar—someone others can lean on, learn from, and trust.
Final Words
BLXCR: Brother Earl, this has been a beautiful conversation.
Brother Earl X: Thank you so much. I appreciate the opportunity.
At 35 years old, Brother Earl X represents what happens when young soldiers are nurtured instead of neglected, guided instead of discarded. His story reminds us that real change doesn’t always come with noise—it often comes quietly, through consistency, service, and faith. These are the stories that matter.
Comments