It started with a question: “Why isn’t there a day named after Ruby Bridges?”
Maddie, a student at Martin Elementary in South San Francisco, along with her fellow AAA School Safety Patrollers, wondered if there was a way to celebrate the civil rights icon, and Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day was born.
In 1960, at the age of six, Ruby Bridges was one of the first Black children to integrate the all-white public school system in New Orleans, Louisiana. Facing an angry mob, Ruby was escorted into school by federal marshals. Read more about Ruby’s story and bravery.
What is Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day?
This nationwide event — happening Monday, November 14th — is a partnership between the Ruby Bridges Foundation and AAA. To honor Ruby Bridges, school children across the US will walk to school with friends, neighbors, and classmates, and you can too! Be sure to post photos and videos of your walk to social media using #RubyBridgesWalkToSchoolDay (and don’t forget to tag Au Pair in America and The Ruby Bridges Foundation!). Members of the Au Pair in America community who email images captured from the walk with the subject line “Ruby Bridges” will earn a special thank you gift.
Other ways for you and your family to participate:
- Read more about the story. Check out I am Ruby Bridges, authored by the civil rights hero herself (recommended for ages 4-8)
- Plan a family movie night – the film Ruby Bridges is available on Disney+ (recommended for ages 10+)
- Take a virtual field trip – The Norman Rockwell Museum is home to the iconic painting of Ruby Bridges, titled “The Problem We All Live With”. The museum provides virtual museum tours and programs.
- Learn more about Ruby Bridges and her work by visiting the Ruby Bridges Foundation
- Wear purple! It’s Ruby’s favorite color.
- Ask your school to participate. It’s never too early to begin planning for next year’s walk to school event.
- In support of your school or community organization, request information and free materials from AAA – event resource guides, printable posters, and more – to help make your Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day a success.
Did you know? As a leader in the field of au pair child care, Au Pair in America partners with other organizations who are experts in their field. AAA is just one of those partners. For decades, Au Pair in America au pairs have had access to “best in the industry” training in driving and road safety.
