Ruby Bridges Inspires at Wilmington Library’s Black History Month Event

February 19, 2025

Civil Rights Icon Reflects on Her Legacy, Education, and Activism

By Saquan Stimpson

Wilmington, DE – The Wilmington Public Library continued its Black History Month series with The Cookout, featuring an unforgettable conversation with civil rights icon Ruby Bridges on Tuesday evening. Bridges, who made history as the first African American child to integrate the formerly whites-only William Frantz Elementary School in New Orleans on November 14, 1960, captivated the audience—many of whom were educators—with stories of resilience, courage, and hope.

Bridges, now an esteemed author and speaker, discussed her latest book, A Talk with My Teacher, which reflects on her relationship with her first-grade teacher, Barbara Henry, a Boston native who supported her during the turbulent period of desegregation. The book serves as both a memoir and an inspiration for educators and students alike.

Throughout the evening, Bridges recounted her childhood experiences, recalling the confusion and excitement she felt as a six-year-old navigating the hostility of a segregated society. “I had no idea what was going on at the time,” she once shared in an interview. “I thought it was Mardi Gras. I didn’t know that they were protesting me.”

Despite the challenges, she found solace in the kindness of her teacher and the unwavering support of her family and community. “Racism is a grown-up disease, and we must stop using our children to spread it,” she has famously stated—a sentiment that resonated throughout her talk.

Bridges emphasized that the fight against discrimination is not just about race but a broader struggle between good and evil. She encouraged educators to find joy in their work, inspiring students to choose kindness and justice over hatred. Reflecting on her personal journey, she urged attendees to honor the sacrifices of those who fought for equality and to continue their legacy.

It is important to note that all individuals chosen to integrate William Frantz Elementary were girls. Three families would eventually remove their daughters from the school, leaving Bridges as the only student to continue attending in her class. Additionally, white parents who attempted to send their children to school alongside Ruby Bridges were never protected by federal marshals. Historical footage shows these parents being attacked as they tried to cross the picket lines, highlighting the deep resistance to desegregation at the time.

Her advocacy extends beyond speaking engagements. Bridges highlighted the Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day initiative, which encourages students nationwide to engage in discussions about racial justice and take action within their communities. “I hope to see a national holiday where schools participate in walks to promote activism and positive change,” she said, envisioning a future where young people continue the movement toward equality.

The evening concluded with a heartfelt standing ovation, as audience members—predominantly educators—left inspired by Bridges’ enduring message of hope, education, and activism. Her visit to Wilmington reinforced the importance of remembering our history, learning from it, and working collectively toward a more just society.

As Bridges reflected on her journey, she shared a profound sentiment: “I really wanted to tell my story from my six-year-old point of view, so that they will understand what it is. In hopes that the children would ask questions of the adults.”