Civil rights pioneer Ruby Bridges was honored by students a on Nov. 13 during the Walk to School Day. Denny International Middle School Principal Mary Ingraham spoke to students at a gathering at 26th and Trenton SW prior to walking to Denny International Middle School, where they were greeted by "Lunch Lady" Doree Fazio-Young and given hot chocolate.

Addressing the crowd during the annual event, Principal Mary Ingraham shared remarks with the gathering: "Good morning. This is such a great showing. Thank you for being here for our Ruby Bridges Walk. I think this is our sixth annual Ruby Bridges Walk. So, well done. Welcome. So glad you're here... Ruby Bridges reminds us that we are here to walk for justice. We are here because we know that our differences actually bring us closer together and make us stronger. We know also that we are here because school, our communities is a place where we all belong and we all contribute to ensuring that everybody is welcome and everybody belongs. So, thank you for walking for that and standing up for that, being the change agents that we need to continue to build this vibrant community to even stronger communities and standing for those values of love and belonging for everybody."

More about Ruby Bridges

Ruby Bridges was born on September 8, 1954, in Tylertown, Mississippi. Her family moved to New Orleans when she was four years old. At the age of six, Ruby was one of six African American students selected to integrate New Orleans public schools. On November 14, 1960, Ruby became the first African American child to attend the all-white William Frantz Elementary School. She was escorted by federal marshals due to threats and protests from those opposed to desegregation. Ruby faced intense hostility and discrimination. Many white parents pulled their children out of the school, and she was taught by a single teacher, Barbara Henry, who came from Boston specifically to teach her. Despite these challenges, Ruby attended school every day, showing remarkable courage and resilience.

Ruby's bravery and the media attention her story received helped highlight the injustices of segregation and the importance of equal education opportunities. Her actions became a symbol of the civil rights movement and inspired many to advocate for change.

Ruby Bridges continued to be an advocate for civil rights throughout her life. In 1999, she established the Ruby Bridges Foundation, which promotes tolerance, respect, and understanding. She has also authored several books, including "Through My Eyes" and "Ruby Bridges Goes to School: My True Story," sharing her experiences and message of hope.