On Thursday morning, students gathered at San Jose City Hall to participate in Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day, a national event honoring a pivotal moment in the Civil Rights Movement.
Participants from Notre Dame High School paid tribute to the courageous journey taken by Ruby Bridges in 1960, when, at just six years old, she became the first African American to desegregate an all-white school in New Orleans amid hostility from an angry mob.
Helena Ledeit, a student involved in the walk, emphasized the power of activism as a means to promote change. “Students especially are so passionate about it. You can be involved in many ways—through art, protests, or even this simple walk,” she stated. “I want to see a change in the world, be a part of it, and leave it better than I found it.”
Tanisha Fitzgerald, director of student leadership and mathematics teacher, highlighted the significance of demonstrating bravery at any age. “It’s crucial for students to understand that it doesn’t matter how old or young they are; just like that six-year-old girl, they too can act courageously,” Fitzgerald remarked.
This annual event began in 2017, initiated by a group of fifth grade students in South San Francisco, and has since grown in significance, inspiring students to engage in meaningful discussions about equality and social justice.
The participation of young students in such initiatives underscores a hopeful future where they are encouraged to stand up for justice and make impactful changes in their communities. Their efforts not only honor Ruby Bridges’ legacy but also serve as a reminder that the spirit of activism remains very much alive today.