222 November 14. 1960, Ruby Bridges

Ieshia Evans, July 9th 2016, Photographer: Jonathan Bachman

Two photos, fifty-six years, so much changed, yet so much the same.

In 1960., The Civil Rights Movement was at its peak. Anti-segregation groups were performing bus boycotts, strikes at diners, and protests under the leaderships of Civil Rights leaders such as the noted Martin Luther King Jr. and Harriet Tubman. However, the context of the iconic, unclaimed photograph of  first elementary school integrations of black and white pupils, is quite daunting. A little girl (Ruby Bridges) is pictured walking out of school, an institution where she was the only black student, briefcase in hand. She is surrounded by U.S deputy marshals who are protecting her from shouting protestors, most of which are white racist adults.

What I find peculiar about this chosen photograph is not the innocent yet strong expression on Bridges’ face (which is  admirable) but rather the stances of the marshals around her. They stand far apart, strange for protection of such a young child. If a white child was in danger, one would think security would be close by, perhaps having an arm or two around the victim. In my view, this way of exhibiting oneself could be a stand of itself, stating the choice not to take sides in the matter. The distance recorded by this photograph illustrates the stance of the U.S government, especially in New Orleans. They do not want to seem like they are promoting de-segregation but do want to complete their duties. It is a statement of defensive but also one of acceptance, of acknowledging that inclusion is a wave about to reach the current. Their careers depend on this change but they aren’t sure if they are ready to reach out and touch the winds of change quite yet.

Fifty-six years later, we see Ieshia Evans standing tall and regal in a maxi-dress, walking towards armed officers. Like Ruby, she is strong-willed, facing a storm which happens to be the modern issue of police brutality. However, these government officials aren’t there to protect her; they charge towards her like the the evil advancing towards a floating angel. She shows poise in her bravery, of years and experience of anti-blackness in a skin that people tend to hate.

And that is something that Ruby and Ieshia share: years, experience, and courage. Ruby is elementary school aged and small yet she conveys something distinct, emotion deep within her young eyes. She knows discrimination like the back of her hand and can feel it brewing outside of her school as she endeavors deep into her education. Ieshia, although a bit older, is old for her age. A young woman, she has seen her brothers and sisters be brutalized for the color of their skin. Similarly to Ruby, she charges towards her captivators like a queen claiming her throne.

In the wake of her challenge though, there is a stark contrast between the men pictured in Ruby’s photograph and those in Ieshia’s. These men are strong in their position, knowing to defend the police is their duty. Therefore, they have no issue advancing towards their target. Ieshia holds no weapons; is not armed. She is innocent besides the dangers she has experienced in her young life. America to this day, refuses to take a stand towards racial disparities within its realms. They will not put their arms around a young girl hit with a hurricane of hurt but will touch someone bearing no harm, just looking for peace within herself and her community. There is no agenda in this nation to heal the demons of the past, present, and future. Instead, there are four words uttered when push comes to shove.

“Cover up your tracks.”