In this interactive lesson, students will learn about the historical background of racial segregation and the brave individuals and groups who stood up against segregation during the 1950s and 1960s.

This unit uses first- and second-hand accounts to explore the life of Ruby Bridges and revolves around the book "Through My Eyes" by Ruby Bridges. This detailed lesson includes a full literacy unit, tips for small group and independent work on comparing and contrasting, a bibliography of resources, and discussion prompts.

From Debbie Levy: "Today, Jo Ann will be the first to remind you that she is just one of twelve black students who went through the agonizing experience of desegregating Clinton High School.  She'll make sure you know that because of her parents' decision to leave, she spent only one semester there.  The heroes, she'll say, are Bobby Cain and Gail Ann Epps - the ones who hung in there long enough to graduate despite the danger and discomfort of showing up, day after day, to a place where they knew they were not wanted. I say they are all heroes."