Ernest Green, one of nine students who integrated Central High School in Little Rock, Arkansas, will give the keynote address as the University of Mary Washington celebrates the life of Martin Luther King, Jr. on Wednesday, Jan. 21.
Green will discuss his life and experiences as one of the Little Rock Nine, in addition to its impact on the civil rights movement and society today. The presentation will take place at 7 p.m. in George Washington Hall’s Dodd Auditorium. The event is open to the public free of charge.
As a member of the Little Rock Nine, Green became the first African-American student to graduate Little Rock High School. In 1999, Green, along with other members of the Little Rock Nine, received the Congressional Gold Medal, the highest honor awarded to a civilian. Presented by then-President Bill Clinton, the award recognized Green’s bravery during integration at the Arkansas public school.
UMW also will participate in MLK Jr. Kids Day on Sunday, January 18. The annual community celebration includes games and crafts for children from 3-4 p.m. at James Monroe High School. Additional information about the event is available by contacting UMW’s Center for Honor, Leadership and Service at (540) 654-2272.
For more information about the keynote address, please contact the James Farmer Multicultural Center at (540) 654-1044 or via email at umwjfmc@gmail.com.
