Tribute to RUBY BRIDGES
Renay Intisar Jihad
The Ruby of our world was a rose-tinted glass through which we dreamed. She led by example in her school and class. Pushing against the ceiling of segregation’s past meant walking into a movement on an unmapped path.
At age six Ruby passed a rigorous entrance test. She had always excelled by doing her best. She became one of the famous McDonogh Three. What happened next made Civil Rights history.
Ruby’s sweet nature veiled her genuine fear. This tiny steadfast soldier deserved knowledge, not spears.
Shouts, guns, and spit couldn’t stop the progress fate stitched into the silver lining of her hem. Nothing would rob this child of her pride ever again.
Not put off by the onslaught of hate-filled attacks. Her mindset couldn’t be outwitted or matched.
She shined like a gold medallion. The deaf, dumb, and blind chanted, “black, black, get back.” Change was on the horizon.
She wore a pure white sweater over a starched plaid dress. Spectators recorded the moment along with the national press.
Who could miss the sparkle in her hopeful eyes? A strong child’s body striding in crystal daylight.
They only saw death, and reacted according to their view. Yelled, “black, black, go back.” Blinded by her stellar rise.
Beautiful bronze skin with ginger undertones. They cursed her tint and trampled on innocent black bones.
Black, the color oppressors’ mind and heart swore to reject. Black was the only premise given for blocking her small footsteps.
With school supplies packed in a briefcase, shiny brown, she walked while proud and Black as protestors screamed, hissed, and frowned.
Even the name, Ruby Bridges, gave a stellar deep-rooted hint. Did anyone there have a bit of grounded common sense? No! They only saw black. Raised a fist-ball wall of contempt.
Sacrifices made by the family showed their true intent. The quest for an equal education grew obviously evident.
When whites began entering the heavily guarded doors, her enemies turned to friends. Students ignored the roar. Ruby’s resolve helped her defense.
Barbara Henry became Ruby’s teacher. She ignored the obscene nonsense. Taught like you’d teach a scholar, giving Ruby one hundred percent.
You are still the Ruby of our world. The ruby-tinted glass through which we dream. Rain or shine — Day or night Whether skin is jet black or white as pearls… The Master is forever Guiding our brilliant storyline.
All rights reserved. 2020
