A Legacy of Courage: The Movement to Honor Ruby Bridges in Maryland

Eric Amaya, Intern, Office of Delegate Diana Fennell, Timothy Meyer, President of Mount Rainier Elementary PTO, Maryland House Delegate Diana Fennell, District 47A and Assistant Speaker Pro Tem, Kori Johnson, Senior Manager, Program and Engagement, Safe Routes Partnership, DeJanee Fennell, President and CEO of Good Intentions Foundation, Pamela Boozer-Strother, Prince George's County Board of Education Member

As we wrap up Black History Month, we acknowledge new legislative efforts to officially commemorate Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day. Recently, Safe Routes Partnership staff member Kori Johnson provided testimony for Maryland House Bill 493 which would officially recognize Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day across the state and encourage school districts to implement Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day educational programming.

The legislation is being led by local Safe Routes champions in Prince George’s County, Maryland. Mount Rainier Elementary PTO President Timothy Meyer and Prince George's County Board of Education member Pamela Boozer-Strother are longtime Safe Routes to School advocates and host annual Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day celebrations.

Pamela Boozer-Strother, Prince George's County Board of Education Member, Kori Johnson, Senior Manager, Program and Engagement, Safe Routes Partnership, Timothy Meyer, President of Mount Rainier Elementary PTO, Jeffrey Fennell, COO of Good Intentions Foundation, Maryland State Senator Joanne Benson, District 24, DeJanee Fennell, President and CEO of Good Intentions Foundation

"Safe Routes Partnership is how our school first learned about Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day, and November 14 has quickly become one of our most significant events of the year,” says Meyer. “Celebrating and honoring Ruby has brought our community closer together, given our students so much knowledge about Ruby and her courageous story, and had an incredible positive impact on our school community."

The bill is being sponsored by Maryland House Delegate Diana Fennell, who believes that events like Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day serve a larger educational purpose.

“Ruby Bridges’ bravery reminds us that every child deserves a safe and inclusive learning environment, free from discrimination and fear,” says Delegate Fennell. “As we walk today in her honor, we must also take action to protect and uplift our students. That’s why I’m committed to passing legislation that ensures equity in education, promotes diversity, and fosters a culture of acceptance in our schools. This bill isn’t just about policy—it’s about creating a future where every child, regardless of race or background, has the opportunity to thrive. Together, we can continue the fight for justice and equality in education.”

Despite many challenges that communities are facing, we are encouraged by the actions of everyday people to make positive change. That is the legacy of Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day. From students and teachers to advocates and elected officials, everyone plays a role. Ruby taught us that a few small steps can have a big impact, and that kindness is a special kind of superpower. We look forward to celebrating Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day in November, letting Ruby’s legacy lead us through the months ahead.

For more information about Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day, view our webpage.