Eyes on the Prize All These Years Later

Eyes on the Prize is a documentary series that explores the Civil Rights Movement in the United States, covering events from the 1954 Brown v. Board of Education decision to the mid-1980s. The Elizabeth Eckford interview features an interview with one of the Little Rock Nine, a group of African American students who were the first to integrate Little Rock Central High School in 1957. Both help to show the effects of racism in society.

In the interview, Eckford reflects on the harassment and racism she faced as one of the first Black students to attend the school, including being spat on and having objects thrown at her. Despite the violence and discrimination she faced, Eckford expresses her belief that the Civil Rights Movement was necessary in order to bring about change and that she would do it again. Looking back, one can see how it did effect some changes in society.

However, the documentary and the interview with Eckford serve as a reminder of the harsh realities of racism and segregation that existed in the United States not too long ago and the bravery and determination of those who fought against it. It also shows that despite some progress that has been made in terms of integration and civil rights, there is still much work to be done to address ongoing issues of racism and discrimination, especially as riots continue to happen around racial injustices.

The interview does serve as a reminder of how the more things change the more they stay the same. Despite the progress made since 1957, racism and discrimination still persist in many parts of society. We must continue to push forward and strive for full acceptance and equality of all races and backgrounds. Only then can we truly begin to say that justice and integration have been achieved.