Norfolk to mark 50th anniversary of Massive Resistance's end

Posted to: News Norfolk
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Associated Press
© June 11, 2008

NORFOLK

Norfolk officials plan to hold events marking the 50th anniversary of the end of Massive Resistance, Virginia's policy to defy federal orders to desegregate public schools.

Mayor Paul Fraim said a special commission led by former Mayor Joseph Leafe and former Vice Mayor Joseph Green will coordinate the observance, which will include a reunion of many of the first black students to attend Norfolk's previously all-white schools.

Virginia adopted Massive Resistance in 1958 to defy the Supreme Court's landmark decision in Brown v. Board of Education. Rather than desegregate, Virginia closed schools, including several in Norfolk, Charlottesville and Warren County.

Norfolk's public schools were integrated on February 2, 1959, when 17 black students, the "Norfolk 17", started class in the city's formerly all-white schools.

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This is no small undertaking..

Submitted by cigim94543 on Wed, 06/11/2008 at 12:55 pm.

I know they have the right team members constructing this milestone, unfortuantely many key players of the time have and continue to pass away. Norfolk was a much different town back then and norfolk society was torn over this issue. I applaud this effort and in lieu of a stoic memorial, statue of any sort, i strongly suggest a living memorial. One that won't lose it's meaning or sifnificance over the years. The Norfolk '17' library, courthouse, etc. Let's all start reflecting on the past transgressions of Norfolk society and those of the country. Why the Pilot didn't give us the date of the up coming event is curious.