Elizabeth Eckford, an important figure in the civil rights movement as one of the "Little Rock Nine," will speak about her experiences Nov. 6 at 7 p.m. at Lipscomb University, 3901 Granny White Pike, Nashville, in the Swang Center.
The event is open to the public. Admission is free.
In 1957 at age 15, Eckford played a major role in the civil rights struggle when she and eight others became the first African-American students to attend an all-white school in Little Rock, despite opposition from whites in Little Rock as well as the Arkansas National Guard.
Because of their experiences, they became known as the "Little Rock Nine."
Although it has been nearly 50 years since the events in Little Rock, only in the past five years has Eckford been able to relive her past in order to share her story with others.
"We are fortunate that she has chosen to share her experience with us," said Melodie Miller, director of Multicultural Affairs. "Her presence here will give the community an opportunity to meet a courageous woman who has broken many barriers in her life."
Eckford went on to attend college in Illinois, majoring in history. Since then, she has worked as a schoolteacher, waitress, and military reporter, and is a probation officer in her hometown. She is the only of the nine still residing in Little Rock.
Eckford has been honored with several awards, including the Congressional Gold Medal presented by former President Bill Clinton in a White House ceremony. She also has received the Spingarn Medal, the NAACP's highest award.
Eckford's appearance is sponsored by the Lipscomb Office of Multicultural Affairs office as part of an ongoing effort to increase cultural awareness in the community and on campus. The event is co-sponsored by the university's "Conversations" program and the Office of Campus Life.
For full information call the Office of Multicultural Affairs at 279.5777.