William Pryor: “Yesterday we celebrated the life and legacy of a great man, a bold leader who inspired courage, unity and compassion. He…”

“Yesterday we celebrated the life and legacy of a great man, a bold leader who inspired courage, unity and compassion. He changed the path of America's conscience, and he left his mark on Arkansas in so many ways. Dr. King time and time again came to the aid of Arkansans and supported others who were making significant sacrifices for civil rights. In May of 1958, Dr. King stood in the audience at Central High School to witness the graduation ceremony of Ernest Green from Little Rock Central High. Ernest was the first of the nine black teenagers who integrated Central High School in 1957. Ernest, along with Elizabeth Eckford, Gloria Ray Karlmark, Carlotta Walls LaNier, Minnijean Brown Trickey, Terrence Roberts, Jefferson Thomas, Thelma Mothershed Wair and Melba Pattillo Beals shaped history by valiantly attending a previously all-white school. These students' selfless act of courage changed history for all Americans in a tale that continues to have immediacy today.”