Resilience Amid Resistance

Historic Marker Dedication

Saturday, May 17, 2025, 10-11:30 am

You are invited to the dedication of a new state historical marker commemorating the first cases to implement the Brown v. Board of Education decision in Virginia and the ensuing fight against Virginia’s “Massive Resistance” to school integration.

The unveiling ceremony includes distinguished speakers Ms. Betty Kilby, Mr. Alex-Zan, and The Honorable Anne Holton.

The event will take place in front of the Federal District Courthouse, 116 North Main St., Harrisonburg. In case of rain, Court Square Theater.

Exhibition Opening, 12:30-2:30 pm, Rocktown History Museum
Immediately following the marker dedication, join us at Rocktown History for the opening of a companion exhibition highlighting the fight for school equality across Virginia. Students from Rockingham County’s four high school developed the exhibition in collaboration with the Moton Museum in Farmville, Virginia.

Historic marker, dedication event, and exhibition made possible by the generosity of Rocktown History donors, the Community Foundation of the Central Blue Ridge Douglas Guynn Charitable Fund, and Rockingham Educational Foundation, Inc.