Louise Brown Advocates for Black History Education in South Carolina Schools
In Charleston County, S.C., Louise Brown, a mother figure of the civil rights movement and the lone surviving leader of the historic 1969 Medical University of South Carolina hospital strike, is continuing the fight for justice. Today, she advocates for equal representation of African American history in South Carolina schools.
The Hospital Strike of 1969
“The hospital strike in 1969 was a wonderful thing,” recalls Brown, reflecting on the events that catalyzed her activist journey. The nurses spearheaded the demand for union representation and equal wages in the healthcare sector, fighting under the slogan “We were overworked and underpaid.” Although their efforts did not yield immediate fruit, the influence of the strike persists in labor movements today, standing as a testament to workers’ rights and Black woman’s leadership.
Response to State Educational Decisions
Today, Brown finds herself once again in the throes of advocacy. Learning that the AP African American studies course won’t be offered during the 2024 to 2025 school year in South Carolina schools, Brown took to the front lines to challenge this decision. The resolution by State Superintendent Ellen Weaver disheartens many in the community, stripping thousands of students of exposure to extensive African American history.
An Invincible Spirit
But the indomitable spirit that led the hospital strike five decades ago is unwilling to bow to such decisions. “Why do they want to take away black history?” Brown questions, adding “We have a right to know our history.”
“They may try to remove the history, but they can’t remove me,” she expresses with unwavering determination. Instead of succumbing to defeat, she continues to inspire the younger generations, encouraging them to carry on her torch. “I want the younger generation to stand up and accomplish what I have not accomplished. I want them to step out on faith. Be the best that they can be. Regardless of what a person says to them,” she asserts.
An Appeal with a Message
The appeal extends beyond a plea to transmit knowledge of the past; it is a battle cry for equality, for recognition, and for establishing a sense of identity. Brown wishes for the younger generation to recognize their worth: “You are somebody,” she emphasizes.
This fight for educational justice comes under the umbrella of broader movements advocating for fair representation and recognitions of Black history within the US. The actions of dedicated activists like Louise Brown remind us that understanding history should not be selective; rather, it should be an inclusive practice that acknowledges and honors the contributions of all communities.
