Civil rights activist Ruby Bridges’ story and professional background made her a compelling choice for the Dr. Henry H. Parker Speaker Series keynote speaker, said Dr. Henri Giles, a UT Martin teacher and director of the Civil Rights Conference Committee.
“I usually try to find people who’ve done significant work and people who are known – who have some name recognition,” Giles said.
The intention for holding this event around Homecoming was to welcome both UT Martin students and alumni who may be in town, Giles said. High school students from across West Tennessee also will attend.
The audience should expect to hear Bridges’ story in the format of a moderated conversation, something most would consider to be more digestible. Giles will be a part of that discussion.
“It will be a chance to have an intimate conversation with her and talk to her about those early years, how that experience of integrating the schools in New Orleans, how all of that impacted her and how it has shaped her as an adult,” Giles said.
Because of the general community’s massive interest in this event, the school had to limit registration accommodate UT Martin students and faculty.
“I knew that Ruby Bridges was very popular, but I had no idea that the response would be as swift and as intense as it was,” Giles said. The Dr. Henry H. Parker Speaker Series was started in 2023 to recognize the accomplishments and service of the longtime UT Martin educator. For over 67 years, Parker built a legacy touching the lives of his students and colleagues.
Thirty-three of those years were spent in the UT Martin Department of History and Philosophy, where he served as both a mentor and professor. This series was created to honor his work’s impact and celebrate others connected to history or African American studies in some way.
