To this day, there is so much inspiration that is drawn from the Civil Rights Movement in this country. Many years later, the movement inspires all ages, but especially children. All ages played a role in the movement and there are many unsung heroes we are only learning about many years after the fact. Luckily we have plenty of children’s books uplifting the many women who fought against segregation, for the right to vote and against bigotry of all forms.
Voice of Freedom highlights Fannie’s many courageous acts in Mississippi as she organized many to vote, and the first time she voted was for herself when she ran for Congress!
Claudette Colvin: Author Phillip Hoose shares the story of another woman that fought segregation by not giving up her bus seat just nine months before Rosa Parks did. Claudette was 15 and pregnant when she refused to give up her seat up to a white woman. This Newbery Honor book does not shy away from the history that shares the long fight to end segregation. Because Claudette has more stories of her experience and leadership within the Montgomery Bus Boycotts once she meets Rosa Parks and beyond.
Coretta's Journey: Learn how Corretta Scott King did more than speak out. She not only organized against racism, but also against poverty, homophobia and war. Illustrator R. Gregory Christie uses watercolor illustrations to share details about Coretta’s childhood that shaped her into becoming an important leader in the movement beyond civil rights.
Chicago native, Diane Judith Nash's story is shared in Love Is Loud. This story shares her experiences confronting segregation, but also how Diane is a leader with her words and actions. Leading the lunch counter sit-ins required her and others to love out loud.
Want to learn about more amazing women in the Civil Rights Movement? Get inspired by I Am Ruby Bridges, Choosing Brave and Lift as You Climb.
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