In a recent tribute to the pioneering actions of the Memphis 13, Senior Counselor Candy Harris, usually found advising students, revisited her history-teaching roots to highlight the impact and legacy of these courageous individuals during a chapel program. As MUS Owls reported, Harris, motivated by her passion for African American history and Black History Month, made it a point to honor the group of first African American students who broke racial barriers by integrating Memphis schools in October 1961.
Not only was this personal for Harris as she shared "It was and continues to be deeply fulfilling to honor the legacies of individuals who dared to dream and inspire change, making it possible for someone like me to stand here today as your counselor," but she also had the rare opportunity to introduce her cousin Mr. Leandrew Wiggins, one of the original Memphis 13, to share his experiences with a current generation. Wiggins, alongside his friend Mr. Alvin Freeman both of whom were cast in the spotlight in the documentary The Memphis 13 spoke candidly about the challenges and triumphs they faced, during a time when racial segregation in schools was standard practice, and yet they remained undeterred in their pursuit of educational equality.
The event also featured an appearance from Mr. Darrell Cobbins '91, whose own history as one of the first African Americans to attend MUS provided another layer of the institution's integration narrative, illustrating the progress made and the work that lies ahead.
"It was and continues to be deeply fulfilling to honor the legacies of individuals who dared to dream and inspire change, making it possible for someone like me to stand here today as your counselor," Harris had earlier reiterated, mirroring the sense of responsibility and pride she has for those who came before her.
