Education Law

This week the last living plaintiff from Brown v Board of Education died. Zelma Henderson was 88 years old.  She, perhaps, summarized the purpose of this historic 1954 Supreme Court decision better than most.  In 2004 Mrs. Henderson told The Associated Press”I wanted my children to know all races like I did. It means a lot to a person’s outlook on life. No inferiority complex at all, that’s what I wanted for my children as far as race was concerned.”

The Court held in Brown v. Board of Education that segregating schools based on race violated the 14th amendment to the United States Constitution which guarantees citizens the equal protection of the law.  It has been the basis for many education and human rights cases in the decades since the ruling and it remains one of the most important cases in American legal history.

The Brown decision did not create instantaneous desegregation and equality in American public schools.  Many would argue that that process is still ongoing more than 50 years later.  However, its importance should not be underestimated and should be reflected on at this time.  Perhaps, this reflection can lead to some policy changes and thoughtful action that will further equality in our public schools.

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