The 70th Anniversary of Brown V. Board of Education

Floor Speech

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Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, today marks a significant milestone in our Nation's history as we gather to commemorate the 70th Anniversary of Brown v. Board of Education. This historic Supreme Court decision was the first step towards ending segregation in our education system, opening doors long closed to Black Americans.

In my hometown of Bolton, Mississippi, I witnessed firsthand the transformative Impact of desegregation. Yet, our journey toward equality did not end there. Cases like Norwood v. Harrison in 1973 highlighted the ongoing struggle for equal access to quality education, underscoring the disparities that persisted even after legal segregation was supposedly outlawed.

As we reflect on this anniversary, let us not forget the continuing effort towards true integration and equality. Despite the Court's ruling, many southern schools stubbornly resisted desegregation. To push for change, we had to push for changes in the law, and legal battles still had to be fought. I will never forget the courageous acts around the country, like from the students of Leland High School in Leland, Mississippi.

Even today, the fight for equal education continues. In 2017, the battle for equality in Mississippi was exemplified by the struggles of East Side High School, formally known as Cleveland Colored Consolidated High and Cleveland Central High School, illustrating that the journey toward educational equity is far from over.

Mr. Speaker, as we reflect on the 70th anniversary of Brown v. Board of Education, let us recommit ourselves to the pursuit of justice and equality in education Let's work together to build a future where every child, regardless of race or background, has the opportunity to fulfill their potential through education.

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