In the midst of the tumultuous Civil Rights Movement, a young African American girl named Ruby Bridges penned a poignant and powerful letter to Mrs. Eleanor Roosevelt, the former First Lady of the United States and a staunch advocate for social justice. Ruby's letter, written in 1963, vividly recounts the challenges she faced as a six-year-old girl integrating an all-white school in New Orleans.
4.6 out of 5
| Language | : | English |
| File size | : | 360 KB |
| Text-to-Speech | : | Enabled |
| Screen Reader | : | Supported |
| Enhanced typesetting | : | Enabled |
| Word Wise | : | Enabled |
| Print length | : | 114 pages |
| Paperback | : | 216 pages |
| Reading age | : | 8 - 10 years |
| Grade level | : | 3 - 4 |
| Item Weight | : | 10.6 ounces |
| Dimensions | : | 6 x 0.49 x 9 inches |
A Young Girl's Courage
Ruby's journey to William Frantz Elementary School became a symbol of the struggle for racial integration in the American South. Despite the relentless taunts and threats from white protesters, Ruby remained determined to attend school. Accompanied by four armed U.S. Marshals, she walked through a gauntlet of angry mobs each day.
In her letter, Ruby expressed her fears and hopes to Mrs. Roosevelt. "I have a dream that one day all people will be equal," she wrote. "I have a dream that one day I will be able to go to any school I want to go to and not be bothered by anyone."
Mrs. Roosevelt's Response
Mrs. Roosevelt was deeply moved by Ruby's letter. She responded with a heartfelt letter of encouragement, in which she praised Ruby's courage and determination. Mrs. Roosevelt wrote, "You have made a great contribution to the cause of justice and equality, and I am very proud of you."
Mrs. Roosevelt's response provided Ruby with a glimmer of hope amidst the darkness of the Civil Rights struggle. It reinforced her belief that even amidst adversity, change was possible.
Impact and Legacy
The letter exchange between Ruby Bridges and Mrs. Eleanor Roosevelt became an iconic moment in the Civil Rights Movement. Ruby's courage inspired countless others to challenge racial injustice, while Mrs. Roosevelt's support demonstrated the power of empathy and allyship.
Today, Ruby Bridges' letter to Mrs. Roosevelt serves as a reminder of the importance of perseverance, resilience, and the pursuit of equality for all.
Additional Resources
- Ruby Bridges National Historical Park
- Letter from Ruby Bridges to Eleanor Roosevelt
- The Power of One Voice: Ruby Bridges and Mrs. Roosevelt
Ruby Bridges' letter to Mrs. Eleanor Roosevelt is a testament to the power of young voices and the importance of unwavering determination in the face of adversity. Through her poignant words, Ruby inspired countless others to stand up for justice and equality, leaving a lasting legacy that continues to shape our world today.
