On the recordFebruary 2, 2010
I am delighted today to rise in support of the resolution before us, House Resolution 901, introduced by my colleague from the State of Wisconsin, Gwen Moore, recognizing November 14, 2009, as the 49th anniversary of the first day of integrated schools in New Orleans, Louisiana. In 1954, the United States Supreme Court ruled in Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka that State laws establishing separate public schools for black and white students denied black children equal educational opportunities. Louisiana District Judge J. Skelly Wright ordered the Orleans Parish Board to carry out a plan to integrate the State's schools. After a 6-year delay, Ruby Bridges became the first African American to attend the all-white William Frantz Elementary School in New Orleans, Louisiana. Ruby Bridges faced many challenges during her first day and ongoing years at William Frantz. Only Barbara Henry was willing to teach Ruby, and for over a year Mrs. Henry taught her alone. Mrs. Henry's lessons left an indelible mark on Ruby and remain with her to this day. Ruby and her family suffered many hardships as a result of Ruby's attendance at William Frantz. However, many of the community showed support in a variety of ways.
