Your father opened Hakim’s Bookstore in 1959 and you are carrying on the torch. What is the significance of this legacy building for you and your family?

My father, the late Dawud Hakim, spent his life trying to educate not just African Americans but all people about the history and contributions of African Americans to America and the world. He stayed true to his mission and persevered despite an initial lack of support, surveillance by the FBI,a lack of funding and criticism from those who did not understand. He sacrificed a lot to achieve his goal of empowering and uplifting our community through books and awareness of Black history. He was taken from us way too soon and his  family is proud to continue his legacy.

What are you reading and talking about amongst friends these days?

I just finished “The Spook Who Sat by the Door” and a novel by Mary Monroe. I’ve read so many books over the years with two of my favorites being “The Autobiography of Malcolm X “and “Divided Soul”, The Life of Marvin Gaye. 

What led you to join the inaugural board of NAB²?

When Kevin contacted me I was more than a little surprised and when he told me why he was calling I was even more amazed he knew anything about our store. When he explained the mission of NAB² it sounded like something I’d be honored to be a part of. This organization is something that is much needed especially in these trying times when so much of our history is being ignored and/or erased. My father had very little support when he decided to open his first bookstore and he had to pretty much make his own way so I see this as a great way to help other Black independent bookstores succeed.

What would a thriving future for Black booksellers include?

I envision them remaining relevant now and going forward especially for our children and youth. We can not trust anyone else to educate and teach the truth to our children. Black bookstores need to not only sell books but be places of  knowledge and empowerment and uplifting to the community.

Younger bookstore owners aspire to build a legacy as rich as that of Hakim Books, how do we stay the course?

It helps to have a real love of books and the desire to educate and uplift others. It’s important to realize this is not an easy market,it requires a lot of time and energy and a commitment to learn and grow. You have to put in the time and energy and recognize the money may not come right away. My father struggled for years and kept his 9-5 job as he tried to raise a family and make his dream a reality. It was a happy day when he was finally able to do what he loved full time.