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The NAACP Advocate

NAACP Concludes 7th Biennial Daisy Bates Education Summit

Education
Nearly fifty years after being escorted into Little Rock Central High School with the assistance and protection of members of the US Army 101st Airborne Division, the Little Rock Nine recently returned to their old high school for a historic homecoming. The Little Rock Nine were invited back to Little Rock to participate as honored guests in the NAACP’s 7th Biennial Daisy Bates Education Summit. Under the theme “Little Rock 1957: Honoring the Legacy, Facing the Challenge,” the NAACP conference brought together education and civil rights advocates from around the country. Some of the primary issues discussed during the conference included reversing the dropout rate for students of color, school desegregation, parent and community involvement in education, and strategies for ensuring Black male academic success.

A highlight of the conference was a public program held at Little Rock Central High School where each of the Little Rock Nine was presented with a special commemorative coin honoring their sacrifice made fifty years ago. The coin was developed by the US Mint but the Arkansas Congressman Vic Snyder created the legislation, which led to the coin being created. The public discussion was attended by over 400 residents of Little Rock who listened as the Nine described their experiences in 1957 and shared their perspectives on race relations and social progress now fifty years later. Joining the Nine on the stage were three current Central High students along with Mrs. Kimberly Oliver, the 2007 National Teacher of the Year.

Following the public program at Little Rock Central High School, each of the Little Rock Nine in attendance was presented with an honorary Life Membership to the NAACP. Making the presentation was Chairman of the National Board of Directors, Julian Bond. Also present at this occasion was former Secretary of Transportation, Rodney Slater, Deputy Chief of Staff to Arkansas Governor Mike Beebe, and Michael P. Rizer, Senior Vice President and Director of Community Relations for Wachovia Corporation. 

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