06 LC 97
0057
House
Resolution 1088
By:
Representative Dukes of the
150th
A
RESOLUTION
Commending
the first students to integrate the Baker County schools; and for other
purposes.
WHEREAS,
the road to racial equality in Georgia is paved by the heroic contributions of
countless individuals willing to take a stand for freedom and justice even in
the face of bigotry and intimidation; and
WHEREAS,
the integration of Baker County schools began in 1965 thanks to the following
students of East Baker High School and East Baker Elementary School: Ann Lebern
Benton, Sandra Jones, Henry E. Williams, Rubertha Hall, Deborah Walker, C. S.
Jackson, Roosevelt Williams, Patricia James, Eddie Williams, Herman Williams,
Carrie Miller-Drake, Marvin Miller, Nathaniel Holt, Betty Broadway, Edward
Oliver, Annie Benton-Wright, Diane Cowart, Betty L. Williams, Artricia
Hawkins-Batten, Missouri Cowart-Edward, Sandra Coe, Betty Blackshear, and
Vernice Lofton; and
WHEREAS,
although some of them were perhaps too young at the time to fully appreciate the
significance of their actions, these individuals' entrance into previously
segregated schools was a courageous and imperative step toward a more equal
society, and all of these pioneers of liberty have rendered to their communities
a priceless service and a lasting legacy; and
WHEREAS,
in celebration of their monumental accomplishment, the East Baker Historical
Society will be honoring this distinguished group of individuals;
and
WHEREAS,
considering the enormous debt Georgians of all colors owe to trailblazers such
as these students who were a part of the integration of Baker County schools, it
is abundantly fitting and proper for this body to honor this remarkable group of
patriots.
NOW,
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES that the members of
this body join together in commending the first students to integrate Baker
County schools and express their eternal gratitude for the courage and
perseverance of these outstanding citizens.
BE
IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Clerk of the House of Representatives is authorized
and directed to transmit an appropriate copy of this resolution to the above
named individuals.