KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Civil rights activist Ruby Bridges is celebrated for her remarkable courage and impact, and on Thursday, students at Quindaro Elementary honored her legacy by participating in a walk around the school track. This event, part of the Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day, is observed nationwide and marks the second consecutive year that Quindaro Elementary has engaged in this meaningful activity.
The students took the opportunity to create posters and signs that not only celebrated Bridges’ contributions to civil rights but also emphasized important messages of unity and peace. Ruby Bridges made history in 1960 as the first Black girl to integrate Elementary Schools in New Orleans, a pivotal moment that continues to inspire generations.
Candace Birdsong, one of the organizers of the event, emphasized the importance of teaching young people to approach conflicts with a sense of calm and understanding. “People need to learn how to handle situations peacefully… there is another way to handle your interactions with someone,” she stated, pointing to the ongoing challenges of violence in their communities.
While the students in Kansas City were walking, Bridges herself was delivering a speech at Washburn University in Topeka, where some fortunate Quindaro Elementary students attended and heard her inspiring words directly.
This event not only celebrates a historic figure but also instills valuable lessons of peace and cooperation in the young participants, fostering hope and resilience in their community.
In conclusion, the Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing journey toward equality and the importance of approaching challenges with courage and kindness.