The world would witness the Nation of Islam reach it’s apex of glory and success during the 1970s. During this time, the Honorable Elijah Muhammad entered into international trade with the government of Peru. Up to three million pounds of fish per month were imported and stored in the Nation’s storage facilities. It was the Messenger’s plan and desire to feed the masses good food at economical prices.
The Honorable Elijah Muhammad’s love for his people extended beyond his followers and he demonstrated this in his hiring practices. Many non-Muslims managed Muslim ventures and businesses. One such venture was the Guaranty Bank & Trust Co. acquired in 1973 and managed by Oscar Williams. John Woodward became Editor-in-Chief of Muhammad Speaks Newspaper, and Christine Johnson became the principal of the University of Islam. He also provided financial support to numerous Black political candidates he felt had the Black community’s interest at heart.
His love and friendship with President Naseer of Egypt convinced Libyan leader Muammar Qaddafi to loan the Honorable Elijah Muhammad three million dollars to purchase a mosque on Chicago’s Southside at 7351 S. Stoney Island Avenue. Governors and Mayors of major cities throughout the United States began to pay homage to the Honorable Elijah Muhammad. Most notable, here in the City of Chicago, Mayor Richard J. Daley’s proclamation of 1974 declaring March 20th, the Honorable Elijah Muhammad Day.