Today marks 60 years since the courageous Little Rock Nine became the first Black students to attend Central High School in Little Rock, Arkansas.
On September 25, 1957 nine brave students by the name of Ernest Green, Elizabeth Eckford, Jefferson Thomas, Terrence Roberts, Carlotta Walls LaNier, Minnijean Brown, Gloria Ray Karlmark, Thelma Mothershed and Melba Pattillo Beals were escorted into Central High by federal troops. Happening three years after the Supreme Court ruled segregation in public schools unconstitutional in the case of Brown v. Board of Education, the students went on to pave the way for equality in education.
Photo via: NMAAHC
To honor the anniversary of this historic day, the National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC) will be hosting a panel discussion with the "surviving members of the group." The special event is a part of the museum's multi-day celebration for its first anniversary, which is September 24.
Photo credit: Michael Hibblen, Pictured: The Little Rock Nine reunited at Central High School (2010)
See full event description below as stated on the museum's website.
"This program will honor the tremendous courage and sacrifice of those students and their families 60 years ago and acknowledge the great achievements in their careers. Join us for a moderated panel discussion with surviving members of the group as they share the circumstances and decisions that that led them to enter the doors of Central High School on September 25, 1957 and the lasting impact of this experience. They will also share their thoughts about the state of public education in this country, and the re-segregation public schools."
Registration for this event is filled to capacity; however, you can submit your email address here to be notified if more slots become available.