A Lesson On Courage at Six Years Old
It’s Black History Month.
I recently returned home to New Orleans to celebrate the life of my aunt, my mother’s oldest sister, who passed in late December. Among those gathered was my cousin Gail, who integrated New Orleans Public Schools in the 1960s.
Most people know the story of Ruby Bridges. While Ruby famously integrated William Frantz Elementary, she was not alone. At the same time, three other six-year-old girls integrated McDonogh 19 Elementary. Gail Etienne, Leona Tate, and Tessie Prevost are collectively known as The New Orleans Four.
All four children, and their families, carried an unimaginable burden to create educational equity in this country. They endured hostility, fear, and isolation so that future generations could walk into classrooms without barricades or armed escorts.
They were ordinary people. Parents making impossible decisions. Children doing brave things because adults asked them to. Together, they created a ripple that still moves through our lives today.
This history is my legacy.
I honor the courage and sacrifice of The New Orleans Four and their families today and always.
Pictured: Gail, her first-grade teacher Mrs. Charbonnet, and Gail’s niece at my Aunt Joyce’s funeral. Also shown is elementary-aged Gail being driven to school by U.S. Marshals.