Boomers are proud that their support for civil rights propelled America into a more color-blind society. Their demand for Women’s Rights in the '70s led to a radically changed workplace in one generation. Gay rights and immigrant rights movements are inspired and energized by Boomer’s support of equal rights. But how will this generation’s devotion to personal freedom play out in their old-age? Will they continue to change the world as they cross the symbolic birthday of 65?
See also: 5 views from five boomers.
In the '60s, parents sent their boomer children to integrate schools. We speak to Idabel Jones who sent her son Michael to Stratford Middle School in Arlington County, Virginia in 1959. Michael was one of the first four African-American students who integrated Virginia schools. Idabel and Michael remember the trying times and the great reward of being the pioneers in the Civil Rights movement.
Also, Lark McCarthy discusses the legacy of Civil Rights and Women’s Rights with Judy Richardson, co-editor of Hands on the Freedom Plow and associate producer of the PBS documentary series Eyes on the Prize and Lynn Sherr, former broadcast journalist.
This is the second of Inside E Street's occasional series, When I'm 65.