Not the kind of change that is found in the bottom of your pockets or in the kitchen drawer, but the change that is found deep within. This is the celebration of a child’s courage that caused one of the greatest changes in the history of our country.
Today is the 50 year anniversary of a little girl named Ruby Bridges. Ruby was one of the first colored children to integrate into an all white public school on November 14, 1960. Under federal court order, New Orleans public schools were forced to desegregate and Ruby was one of six colored children to integrate (she was the first colored child to ever attend William Frantz Elementary).
The tiny six year old was surrounded by federal marshals when she walked up the steps of William Frantz Elementary and entered into the school building. Ruby’s parents had counseled with her, but she was not prepared for the outrage coming from the screaming crowd. The following day, someone had placed a coffin containing a back doll on the front lawn of the school and she was terrified!
The protesting parents refused to allow Ruby to have any contact with their children during school hours. When she entered the classroom, her private teacher asked her to pick any desk in the "empty room". Ruby spent that entire year alone!
It’s shocking to learn the prejudice throughout the history of our country, but it’s equally inspiring to celebrate the courage of great souls who made a difference and to witness the walls of ignorance and unconsciousness tumble to the ground. Ruby is still making contributions with her life and continues to be a exemplary role model in her community and in our country. She works with troubled teens and donates her time to William Frantz Elementary (the school where her touching story began).
There are many things in the world in need of change and if a six year old child can make all the difference in our world, perhaps we can all spare a little change? by. Linda Sumner Urza, One fine day
There are many things in the world in need of change and if a six year old child can make all the difference in our world, perhaps we can all spare a little change? by. Linda Sumner Urza, One fine day
Things do not change; we change. ~Henry David Thoreau
