Dear MSCS Community,

We invite you to join us on November 14th, 2024, to celebrate the profound impact of courage, resilience, and unity in the face of adversity. On this day, schools across the nation will honor Ruby Bridges with Walk to School Day, and we are proud to join this important initiative to celebrate her legacy while promoting dialogue around activism, anti-racism, and anti-bullying.

Ruby Bridges’ journey is a powerful story of bravery that transcends generations. At just six years old, Ruby bravely walked through a crowd filled with hostility and hatred to integrate the all-white William Frantz Elementary School in New Orleans, a pivotal moment in our nation’s history. This courageous act not only transformed her life but also served as a catalyst for change, inspiring countless individuals to confront racism and bullying within their communities.

In partnership with Innovate Memphis, we will honor our own Memphis 13, the courageous students who integrated Memphis City Schools in 1961. Their sacrifices and determination remind us that change often begins with a single step. We invite every member of the MSCS family to participate in Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day. We also encourage our teachers to plan a variety of engaging activities that highlight these important themes, such as group walks, classroom discussions, and creative projects centered around Ruby's inspiring story. Schools can find the toolkit here.

Let us carry forward the lessons learned from Ruby's bravery and the determination of the Memphis 13 as we strive to foster an environment where every student feels valued and empowered.

Community Partners: Innovate Memphis is an independent nonprofit organization that partners with government, nonprofit, and philanthropic partners to solve civic problems. https://innovatememphis.com/