Supervisor Anne O’Connor Celebrates Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day with “Day of Dialogue” Event in Whitefish Bay

MILWAUKEE – Milwaukee County Supervisor Anne O’Connor invites community members to join the Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day: Day of Dialogue on Thursday, November 13 from 5–7 p.m. at the Whitefish Bay Library (5420 N Marlborough Dr).

The event honors Ruby Bridges, the six-year-old girl who courageously integrated an all-white elementary school in New Orleans in 1960, becoming a national symbol for equity and justice in education. The evening will include storytelling, discussion, and shared learning on how Ruby’s bravery continues to shape conversations around race, education, and inclusion today. They will also emphasize the importance of walking and biking safety, promoting the independence and well-being that come with active transportation options to school and work. Speakers for the event include Aaron Bledsoe (Facilitator), Dynasty Ceasar, Janice Brown, Kenyatta Sinclair, Ashley Fleming, Kendia Terry, and Dr. Demond Means. Snacks will be provided by AARP Wisconsin.

“Ruby Bridges’ story reminds us that real change often begins with one brave step,” said Supervisor O’Connor. “This event not only honors her courage but continues the dialogue she inspired, one that started right here in Milwaukee when a group of first graders helped make Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day a national movement.”

The national observance has deep Milwaukee roots, inspired by a 2010 initiative from a first-grade class at Milwaukee’s Barton Elementary School, who wrote to Congress advocating for a day recognizing Bridges’ historic walk to school. Their efforts led to a bipartisan resolution, recognizing Ruby Bridges’ contributions to civil rights and education.

This program is brought to the community by AARP Wisconsin, Milwaukee County Office of Equity, Milwaukee County Transit, Wisconsin Bike Fed, MilWALKee Walks, WFB: Safe, Bay Bridge, Whitefish Bay Public Library, North Shore Health Department, and Supervisor Anne O’Connor (District 1).

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.