In 1961, the New Rochelle public schools became the first outside the South to undergo a court-ordered desegregation. The “Taylor Case” resulted in the closure of Lincoln Elementary School (now the site of Lincoln Park) and afforded the parents within the primarily African-American Lincoln School District the opportunity to send their children to a public elementary school of their choice.
After half a century, the Taylor Case still shapes the physical, educational and human fabric of New Rochelle. It is a reminder that, even in a community that prides itself on diversity, the work of achieving full inclusion, equality, and mutual understanding among all people remains unfinished.
To commemorate the 50th Anniversary and to stimulate a dialogue about the critical issues raised by the Taylor Case, the School District has organized a series of public events. The next three are as follows:
Thursday, February 24, 2011
7:00pm to 9:00pm
Poetry Program: “Change, Challenges, and Children”
New Rochelle High School
Linda Kelly Theater, New Wing (Off Braemer Avenue.).
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
7:00pm to 9:00pm
Exhibit Opening at the Museum of Arts & Culture
Followed by a Reception and Reflections of Change Symposium
New Rochelle High School
Linda Kelly Theater, New Wing (Off Braemer Avenue)
Thursday, March 24, 2011
7:00pm
Presentation & Book Signing
Carlotta Walls LaNier, Author of “A Mighty Long Way: My Journey to Justice at Little Rock Central High School.”
New Rochelle Public Library
1 Library Plaza