"The Disney movie Ruby Bridges, which tells the tale of a 6-year-old who integrated New Orleans schools in the 1960s, has been a staple of Pinellas County Black History Month lessons for years.
"It never caused a stir until this year, as parents across Florida exert increased powers to question what children can see and read in schools.
"A North Shore Elementary parent who would not allow her child to watch the film in early March later complained that it wasn’t appropriate for second graders. In a formal challenge dated March 6, Emily Conklin wrote that the use of racial slurs and scenes of white people threatening Ruby as she entered a school might result in students learning that white people hate Black people.
"Pinellas school officials responded by removing the movie from use by all students at the St. Petersburg school until a review committee can assess it — a step that is drawing strong opposition
"A countywide group that represents the interests of Black children in Pinellas public schools has sent an open letter to the community questioning why one parent’s complaint resulted in actions that affect all families at the school."
Link to full article: Removal of ‘Ruby Bridges’ film from Pinellas school sparks outrage
I haven't seen the movie in question, but I know the story of Ruby Bridges and what the child went through. I also know, from having read a plot synopsis of the movie, that the movie didn't neglect to portray White allies of Ruby, such as teacher Barbara Henry and child psychiatrist Robert Coles. Obviously, not all White people hate Black people, despite the complaining parent's take on the film.
Do you see anything particularly problematical in the film Ruby Bridges? Do you think that children should not be taught in school about this period in American history? I mean, obviously it was not one of America's shining moments, but must the only history that is taught to children be the kind that inspires nationalistic pride?
"It never caused a stir until this year, as parents across Florida exert increased powers to question what children can see and read in schools.
"A North Shore Elementary parent who would not allow her child to watch the film in early March later complained that it wasn’t appropriate for second graders. In a formal challenge dated March 6, Emily Conklin wrote that the use of racial slurs and scenes of white people threatening Ruby as she entered a school might result in students learning that white people hate Black people.
"Pinellas school officials responded by removing the movie from use by all students at the St. Petersburg school until a review committee can assess it — a step that is drawing strong opposition
"A countywide group that represents the interests of Black children in Pinellas public schools has sent an open letter to the community questioning why one parent’s complaint resulted in actions that affect all families at the school."
Link to full article: Removal of ‘Ruby Bridges’ film from Pinellas school sparks outrage
I haven't seen the movie in question, but I know the story of Ruby Bridges and what the child went through. I also know, from having read a plot synopsis of the movie, that the movie didn't neglect to portray White allies of Ruby, such as teacher Barbara Henry and child psychiatrist Robert Coles. Obviously, not all White people hate Black people, despite the complaining parent's take on the film.
Do you see anything particularly problematical in the film Ruby Bridges? Do you think that children should not be taught in school about this period in American history? I mean, obviously it was not one of America's shining moments, but must the only history that is taught to children be the kind that inspires nationalistic pride?
