VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. — Decades ago, more than 30 black children and their families helped integrate Virginia Beach schools, They became known as the Fearless 38. On Saturday, the Centerville Historic Society hosted a reunion for those who helped integrate Woodstock Elementary School and Kempsville Junior High School.
Some shared how they were mistreated while attending all-white schools. Marden Times said she was 10 years old when she helped to integrate Woodstock Elementary School.
“It was scary because I wasn’t in my black world anymore. And I regretted it. I hated it,” said Times.
I asked my mom why did she do it?” [But through the years] I learned to understand it had to be down. We had to break the barriers.”
The reunion reminded some of the Fearless 38 about how courageous they were to bring about change for future generations.
The Historic Preservation Commission hopes to work with the community to support additional information about the Fearless 38 and their contribution to society.