I felt like there was something I needed to do - speaking to kids and sharing my story with them and helping them understand racism has no place in the minds and hearts of children.
Ruby BridgesRead
When the scary subject of race is finally broached, kids want to talk and talk. It's very satisfying.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Discussing race can lead to important and fulfilling conversations, especially among children.
Ruby Bridges highlights the importance of addressing race and how it invites open dialogue among children. When given the opportunity, children are eager to express their thoughts and feelings, showing that conversations about race can be enlightening and deeply engaging.
Themes
RaceConversationChildrenDialogueUnderstanding
In practice
Example use cases
In a community meeting discussing educational reforms, this quote can be shared to encourage dialogue about race.
More from Ruby Bridges
All quotes →Schools should be diverse if we are to get past racial differences.
Ruby BridgesRead
I've seen schools in Detroit where the windows are broken, where there's no heat, and children are sitting with their coats on in class in the middle of a snowstorm. I've also seen schools in California with Olympic-sized swimming pools and cafeterias like five-star restaurants.
Ruby BridgesRead
Throughout my life, my prayers have actively sustained me - held me up, carried me through.
Ruby BridgesRead
My message is really that racism has no place in the hearts and minds of our children.
Ruby BridgesRead
I remember the first time seeing myself on TV, when my family was watching the documentary 'Eyes on the Prize' for the first time. There were pictures of people going up the school stairs, and Mom said, 'Oh, that's you!' I said, 'I can't believe this. This is important.'
Ruby BridgesRead
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