The Iliff School of Theology will honor the members of the Little Rock Nine and their civil rights legacy with "A Celebration of Courage," a tribute event, Feb. 26, 2008, noon, Adam's Mark Hotel, 1550 Court Place, Denver.
"Fifty years ago, America was changed forever by the voices and determination of nine young, courageous high school students. In 1957-58, America was a nation of inequalities, a country without a Civil Rights Act - a segregated land where skin color determined not only where you sat on the bus, but where you lived, the type of job you were allowed to hold, and the social circles you could move in," said Dr. David Trickett, president. "As part of the nation's celebration of the 50th anniversary of the integration of Central High School in Little Rock, Arkansas - a landmark event for the civil rights movement - we are delighted to host the nine individuals who helped to make it possible for every child in America to enjoy the right to a public education. Denver is truly fortunate to have this opportunity to host these pioneers and to hear the stories of their journey together."
The historic gathering of the Little Rock Nine - Elizabeth Eckford, Ernest Green, Carlotta Walls LaNier, Melba Pattillo, Gloria Ray, Terrance Roberts, Jefferson Thomas, Minnijean Brown Trickey, and Thelma Mothershed Wair, - is being spearheaded by event co-chairpersons Barbara Baldwin, community leader, and Al Yates, former president, Colorado State University. Honorary co-chairpersons are Carlotta Walls LaNier, a member of the Little Rock Nine and Iliff trustee, and Vincent Harding, long-time civil rights activist, professor emeritus at Iliff, and director of the Veterans of Hope Project.
"The Nine have only been together a handful of times in the past 50 years. This tribute was inspired by Carlotta's personal account of her experience as one of the Nine," added Trickett. "It is through these types of courageous experiences that our students and our community can be empowered. Iliff's Justice and Peace Studies concentration focuses on just that - training individuals to peacefully transform society."
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Last Modified: July 4, 2007.
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