Lucille Johnson, the mother of famed civil rights figure Ruby Johnson, has passed away at the age of 86 this week. The tireless advocate for change and equality had a profound impact on many lives, especially through her daughter, who made history at just six years old by integrating an all-white school in New Orleans. This significant moment was immortalized in a famous Norman Rockwell painting, which recently resurfaced on social media as a symbol of progress, particularly following Kamala Harris’s historic election as the first female Vice President of the United States.
Ruby, now 66, shared the news of her mother’s passing on Instagram, expressing her heartfelt tribute: “Today we lost a hero. Brave, progressive, a champion for change. She helped alter the course of so many lives by guiding me as a six-year-old girl. Our nation has lost a Mother of the Civil Rights Movement today. I love you and am grateful for you. May you Rest In Peace.”
A report from the Associated Press detailed Lucille’s life, noting she gave birth to Ruby in Tylertown, Mississippi, in 1954—the same year that racial segregation in schools began to change with the landmark Brown vs. Board of Education ruling. Ruby often credited her parents for their pivotal decision to enroll her in the previously all-white William Frantz Elementary School. “My parents are the real heroes,” she stated, acknowledging their commitment to doing what was right.
The painting “The Problem We All Live With” remains one of Rockwell’s most celebrated works, depicting young Ruby being escorted by U.S. Marshals as she entered the school amidst hostility.
New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell issued a statement honoring Lucille’s legacy. “Today, we mourn the loss of one of the mothers of the Civil Rights Movement in New Orleans,” she said. “May she rest in God’s perfect peace.” Mayor Cantrell highlighted Lucille’s determination to ensure her daughter received an education she herself was denied. Lucille bravely walked Ruby to school each day, even in the face of protests and hostility.
The New Orleans School District also expressed its condolences, recognizing Lucille’s immense courage in allowing Ruby to face the challenges of desegregation. As the 60th anniversary of that pivotal moment approaches, they thanked both Lucille and Ruby for paving the way for future generations.
A viral image recently juxtaposed the legacies of Rosa Parks, Ruby Johnson, and Kamala Harris, emphasizing the progress made through their sacrifices: “Rosa sat, so Ruby could walk, so Kamala could run.”
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Summary:
Lucille Johnson, the mother of civil rights icon Ruby Johnson, passed away at 86, leaving behind a legacy of courage and advocacy for education and equality. Ruby shared a heartfelt tribute to her mother, recognizing her vital role in the civil rights movement. Lucille’s dedication to ensuring her daughter received an education in a segregated society remains a powerful testament to her strength and commitment.