Today, let’s celebrate Ruby Bridges, the trailblazing civil rights activist, on her birthday!
Born on September 8, 1954 in Tylertown, MS, Ruby made history in 1960 as the first African-American child to desegregate William Frantz Elementary School in Louisiana. Her courageous story is immortalized in Norman Rockwell’s iconic painting, “The Problem We All Live With.”
Throughout her life, Bridges has received numerous accolades for her bravery and determination. In 1995, she and Robert Coles accepted honorary degrees from Connecticut College, marking their first public appearance together. Bridges’ book, “Through My Eyes,” was honored with the prestigious Carter G. Woodson Book Award in 2000.
Recognizing her immense contribution to civil rights, President Bill Clinton presented Bridges with the Presidential Citizens Medal on January 8, 2001. Her impact continues to be recognized, with the Alameda Unified School District in California naming an elementary school in her honor in October 2006. She was also recognized as a “Hero Against Racism” at the 12th annual Anti-Defamation League “Concert Against Hate” in November 2006.
Join us in celebrating Ruby Bridges, a true inspiration and beacon of progress in the fight against racism. Happy birthday, Ruby!