WILLIAMSBURG, Va. — Black students from the first graduating class to integrate Williamsburg-James City County schools are sharing their stories.
They are part of the Class of 1969 and the focus of a documentary titled "Voices of Integration." It tells the first-hand experiences of former students, teachers, and parents.
The Village Initiative for Equity in Education is a Williamsburg-based organization that produced the film. Founder Jacqueline Bridgeforth-Williams explained the significance and impact of the stories shared.
"These were stories that needed to be told," said Bridgeforth-Williams. "Needed to be heard. Because they broke down barriers for us in this community."
In addition to the watch party, attendees will hear a panel discussion with former students, including Cynthia Druitt.
"It wasn't all bad. But the experience that we had was something that I would not have wanted my children to experience," said Druitt.
The program is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. Tuesday at the Williamsburg Christian Church.