How Selma Teachers Changed History

Teachers play a vital role in shaping our society, but there are certain moments throughout history when educators went beyond their call of duty and truly changed the course of events. One such remarkable instance is the role played by Selma teachers during the civil rights movement in the 1960s.

The Civil Rights Movement and Selma

The civil rights movement aimed to end racial segregation and discrimination against African Americans in the United States. It was a complex struggle that involved numerous individuals, organizations, and events, with Selma, Alabama emerging as a crucial battleground.

The Teachers March!: How Selma's Teachers Changed History

by Sandra Neil Wallace (Kindle Edition)

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	56588 KB
Print length	:	158 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

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Selma was a focal point for civil rights activists due to its staunch resistance to desegregation and the African American community's continuous struggle for voting rights. In 1965, a series of protests and marches took place in Selma, with teachers at the forefront of these powerful movements.

The Courageous Teachers of Selma

The teachers in Selma demonstrated incredible courage and determination during the civil rights movement. They not only educated their own students but actively participated in organizing protests, voter registration drives, and community outreach programs.

The local teachers' union, Selma Teachers Association (STA), played a significant role in mobilizing educators and ensuring their involvement in the fight for civil rights. The STA's leaders encouraged teachers to engage in nonviolent demonstrations, advocating for equality and justice.

Despite facing opposition, intimidation, and even threats of losing their jobs, the teachers of Selma stood up for what they believed in. They understood that transforming society starts with education and that by challenging discriminatory practices in schools, they could make a lasting impact on their students and the community as a whole.

The Impact on Education

The actions of the Selma teachers had a profound impact on education and paved the way for change in the segregated school system. By actively participating in protests, teachers exposed the injustices experienced by African American students, highlighting the urgent need for equal educational opportunities.

Their efforts led to the establishment of newly integrated schools, where students of all races could learn together in an inclusive environment. By fighting for desegregation, the teachers of Selma helped break down the barriers that had long hindered the academic and personal growth of African American children.

The Long Road to Voting Rights

One of the main goals of the civil rights movement in Selma was to secure voting rights for African Americans. Selma teachers recognized the significance of this issue in combating systemic racism, making it a central focus of their activism.

Teachers actively participated in voter registration drives, educating their students and community members on the importance of exercising their right to vote. They organized rallies, held meetings, and even accompanied individuals to registration offices despite facing hostility and violence.

Their determination culminated in the historic Selma to Montgomery marches, where thousands of civil rights activists, including teachers, marched from Selma to the state capital to demand equal voting rights. This eventually led to the enactment of the Voting Rights Act of 1965, a landmark legislation that protected the rights of African Americans to vote.

Remembering Their Legacy

The courageous actions of Selma teachers during the civil rights movement continue to inspire generations of educators and remind us of the importance of fighting for justice and equality. Their commitment to education and social change leaves a lasting legacy and serves as a testament to the power of teachers in shaping history.

As we reflect on their historic achievements, it is crucial to recognize that the fight for equality is ongoing. Selma teachers faced numerous obstacles and hardships, but they persevered, creating a more just and inclusive society for future generations.

In

The teachers of Selma took on the role of change-makers during a critical moment in American history. Their unwavering dedication to education, justice, and equality propelled the civil rights movement forward, leading to significant progress in the struggle against racial discrimination.

Today, we must honor and remember the teachers of Selma for their immense contribution to society. Their story serves as a reminder that educators have the power to change lives, shape communities, and alter the course of history.

The Teachers March!: How Selma's Teachers Changed History

by Sandra Neil Wallace (Kindle Edition)

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	56588 KB
Print length	:	158 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE

FOUR STARRED REVIEWS!

NCTE Orbis Pictus Honor Book ° Booklist Editors' Choice ° Jane Addams Children's Book Award, Finalist ° A Notable Book for a Global Society

★ "An alarmingly relevant book that mirrors current events." —Kirkus Reviews, starred review

Demonstrating the power of protest and standing up for a just cause, here is an exciting tribute to the educators who participated in the 1965 Selma Teachers' March.

Reverend F.D. Reese was a leader of the Voting Rights Movement in Selma, Alabama. As a teacher and principal, he recognized that his colleagues were viewed with great respect in the city. Could he convince them to risk their jobs--and perhaps their lives--by organizing a teachers-only march to the county courthouse to demand their right to vote? On January 22, 1965, the Black teachers left their classrooms and did just that, with Reverend Reese leading the way. Noted nonfiction authors Sandra Neil Wallace and Rich Wallace conducted the last interviews with Reverend Reese before his death in 2018 and interviewed several teachers and their family members in order to tell this story, which is especially important today.