NEA Celebrates 50th Anniversary of
'Brown v. Board of Education'

The Supreme Court half a century ago declared that racial segregation in public schools deprived students of equal educational opportunities. It was a watershed moment in American history. Here's what we're doing to raise awareness of the opportunities opened up by the decision and the continuing need to make real improvements.

Nettie Hunt and her daughter, Nickie, sit on the steps of the
U.S. Supreme Court in May 1954.
Photo by Cass Gilbert/Bettman/Corbis

Horizons of Opportunities

Take a look around. We've compiled an overview of this landmark court decision and a current look at school desegregation — or in some cases resegregation. Additionally, you'll find a host of resources including our school integration timeline, and a calendar of commemorative events.

Available online: NEA, Court TV Webcast

Watch the recording of Court TV's recent online event commemorating the 50th anniversary of "Brown v. Board of Education. "Association President Reg Weaver and other education leaders — including Cheryl Brown Henderson, whose father was an original plaintiff — were featured.

'NEA Today' Publishes Commemorative Issue

Educators profiled in the May edition of our magazine reflect on their own classroom experiences with desegregation as part of our "progress and struggle" timeline.

NEA, Smithsonian Co-Sponsor Exhibit

"Separate is Not Equal: Brown v. Board of Education" opened May 15 at the National Museum of American History.  The central theme is that the Supreme Court decision — through the efforts of lawyers, scholars, parents, students and community activists — transformed America.

NEA President Featured at Town Hall Meeting on "Brown"

Television and radio host Tavis Smiley and the NAACP Legal Defense Fund convened a May 15 panel of legal, social, and academic experts — including Reg Weaver — to ruminate on the "Unfinished Agenda" of 'Brown v. Board of Education.'