A Birthright to Learn

Brown v. Board of Education approaches 70th anniversary

BY BRIONA LAMBACK

It’s been nearly 70 years since Brown v. Board of Education changed the face of schooling in America.

The landmark Supreme Court decision ending segregation in American schools was handed down in 1954 and was a turning point in the civil rights movement. But it wasn’t the only significant education-focused event. From studentled school strikes to full-on physical integration efforts, the fight for African Americans to receive a fair and equal education didn’t come easily. Plenty of leaders, students, activists and everyday civilians organized to ensure everyone had the same birthright to learn.

As America prepares to celebrate the 70th anniversary of Brown v. Board next year, here are five education sites along the U.S. Civil Rights Trail worth planning a trip around.