The Forum

New Orleans, Louisiana - November 14, 1960 - Marks the day six-year-old Ruby Bridges made history by becoming one of the first Black students to integrate into an all-white school. She Enrolls at William Frantz Elementary School as a direct order of federal court ordering schools to desegregate. Despite her impact Ruby Bridges' story is often overshadowed or gets mistaken for Rosa Parks. Many associate her name with the Montgomery boycott, responding with “ the one that rode the bus?” after hearing her name. Her story is so buried, even though she played a crucial role in forging the starting path for African Americans to attend perilously all-white schools. Not enough people know who she is or why she matters.

In 1960, six-year-old Ruby Bridges was chosen to be a symbol of change in her community. While the court's order remained the same, many white families refused to accept it. Ruby wasn't just going to school, she was changing history. When Ruby arrived outside Williams Frantz Elementary School in New Orleans, she was met with mobs of angry protesters who lined the streets, shouting, cursing and even throwing food at her. Many white parents pulled their kids out of school. Ruby spent most of her first-grade year as the only student in her class, yet she kept going. She remained strong despite the hateful words and protests surrounding her. Barbara Henry was the only educator willing to teach her, traveling from Boston Massachusetts to New Orleans, Louisiana. Henry provided Ruby with the education she had fought so hard to receive. Creating an environment of kindness and even giving Ruby a sense of normalcy while the chaos unfolded around her. She walked every day to school and was met with threats and signs demanding she leave. Bridges' actions marked a turning point in the Civil Rights Movement. Her presence in the classroom was a symbol of progress. The integration of Williams Frantz Elementary was one of the many steps to dismantle segregation in the American education system. This paved the way for future generations of students to learn in one classroom without hatred for one another. More than six decades later, Bridges continues to advocate for equal education and civil rights. Through her foundation, ‘Ruby Bridges Foundation’ she worked to create opportunities for students of all backgrounds. Her story serves as a significant reminder that history is not shaped by laws or leaders but also everyday people. As Ruby Bridges has said herself “ Racism is a grown up disease, Let’s stop using our kids to spread it.” Her words highlight the importance of educating future generations in an environment free from hatred. 

Ruby Bridges' story is one of bravery and determination. As a young girl she was faced with many challenges simply for wanting an education, yet she never gave up. Ruby's courage helped change the American school system and gave future generations an opportunity to learn together. By remembering and sharing her story, we ensure that her and everyone's fight for justice counts.