Civil rights pioneer Ruby Bridges was honored by students and public officials on Nov. 14 during the Walk to School Day. Seattle Public Schools Director Chris Carter was in attendance and  Denny International Middle School Principal Mary Ingraham and City Councilmember Rob Saka 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.

Saka said, "Many, many decades ago, a six-year-old girl defied all odds. She faced racism. She faced harassment. She faced people spitting at her. She faced people yelling racial slurs at her. She at every step she took on her way to school in New Orleans in 1960, six-year-old Ruby persevered. She stood up to injustice. She stood up to racism. She stood up for the fight for equity and racial justice for all of us. But the fight continues. The fight that Ruby started many years ago continues today. We all have a continuing ongoing obligation to stand up for what's right. Stand up for justice, stand up against bullying, and accept each other and acknowledge we are all human beings at the end of the day."

Principal Mary Ingraham said, "Each of you being here today is continuing that legacy. You're standing. You're taking action. And your voice is powerful. Individually, you are each powerful... and you're contributing to making our community safer, stronger, better, inclusive. Each of you are so powerful as an individual, but collectively you are unbeatable. You are unstoppable. I am so honored to be able to represent all of you fine scholars, all of our fine staff in this fine community because of the power each of you hold and how you come together. Thank you for being here today. Thank you for contributing. Thank you for taking this positive step forward. Thank you for inspiring all of us. You all are so impressive and this place is in such good hands with all of you. Thank you. And let's go make this walk and let's have some great hot chocolate and let's continue this legacy."

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.