William Madison Shares Civil Rights Experiences with Students

In inspiring and deeply moving presentations, middle and upper school students had the opportunity to hear firsthand about the Civil Rights Movement from William Madison, whose granddaughter is a seventh-grader at the school. Mr. Madison, a former activist who marched with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., shared his personal experiences growing up in the segregated South and participating in pivotal moments of the fight for equality.

The event allowed students to engage directly with history through the eyes of someone who lived it. Reflecting on his childhood in Newbern, Alabama, Mr. Madison described life on a sharecropping farm, where his family grew their own food and navigated the harsh realities of systemic racism.

“I marched behind Dr. King,” he recounted, his voice filled with pride and emotion. “We met at mass meetings, sang ‘We Shall Overcome,’ and faced the dangers of standing up for our rights. The marches were about more than just walking—they were about ensuring my parents could vote and have a voice in our community.”

Mr. Madison vividly described key moments, including his participation in marches that led to his arrest and imprisonment, as well as the role of young people in the movement. He recalled the fear and courage required to stand against armed police and hostile onlookers. “We were scared, but we kept singing,” he said.

Students asked insightful questions about his experiences, including whether he realized the significance of his actions at the time. “We were young, just like you,” he replied. “We didn’t fully understand the importance then, but we knew we wanted change. Looking back, I wouldn’t change a thing.”

The presentation emphasized the importance of education and perseverance. “I hope you all get the education I didn’t have access to,” he encouraged the students. “You have opportunities now that we marched and fought for. Make the most of them.”

The speaker’s visit served as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made during the Civil Rights Movement and the ongoing importance of standing up for justice. His granddaughter, proud of her family’s legacy, stood among her classmates, witnessing the impact of her grandfather’s story on a new generation.

The school community expressed gratitude for the speaker’s visit, which brought history to life in a meaningful and personal way. Events like this continue to inspire students to reflect on their role in shaping a more equitable future.