The Little Rock Nine

During the Little Rock Trip organized by the International Students and Scholars (ISS) office, I learned about the story of real heroes, the Little Rock Nine. Little Rock Central High School is the high school that attempted the integration of public schools in 1957 and nine African American students enrolled. People called them Little Rock Nine. Only nine of them had a chance in the first year, but it was a remarkable event in the history of American civil rights movement.

This trip reminded me of one movie, the Great Debaters. Two years ago, I watched it for my speech class in Korea. This film was about a story of African American students in a college debate team. They participated in the national college debate competition when the Jim Crow laws were still common. One of the lines that I really liked in the movie was this: “The time for justice, the time for freedom, and the time for equality is always, always right now.” I was so moved by the movie, which is based on a true story, yet, I still could not imagine how hard it was for African American students to get in schools at that time and seek for equal rights.

Visitor Center

One of highlights on this trip was visiting Little Rock Central High School. The visitor center was located near the school and we could see the pictures, diaries and articles of the Little Rock Nine regarding their hardship, struggles and hope. What I really liked about this museum was they offered me an opportunity of thinking about the issues that I have been curious and worried about: multiculturalism in the United States because one of concerns I had was what my experience would be like here as an Asian student, who would be considered as one of minority groups.

Although there are a lot of great stories and historical movies and books on this matter, issues around racism still exist in this country. Before coming to the United States, I was a little bit worried about my experience. However, stories I learned at the Little Rock Central High School Visitors Center are powerful and their efforts that Little Rock Nine made in the past were inspiring. Those African American students did not give up until they accomplished their goals, and a lot of people around them supported and helped them to flight for the better future.

Little Rock Central High School

Today, they have a museum of its history that keeps telling stories to the next generation. Those stories encouraged me to reconsider concerns about my study abroad experience. I want to know and learn more about American history and culture, and also experience “America” as much as I can while studying at the U of A.

Two postcards, that had Little Rock Central High School pictures, were sent to my younger sister and brother in Korea. I wish they could share my experiences here, too. I really appreciate ISS for offering such a good opportunity in my first year in the United States. I sincerely look forward to the next trip.

By Hanna Lee, Visiting Student

Hanna Lee: Second from the right.