UNSUNG “SHE”ROSE

Unsung “She”Rose Amelia Boynton Robinson: The Fearless Civil Rights Activist

Sep 1, 2024 | Unsung "She"Rose

Unsung SheRose Amelia Boynton Robinson - Miss Juneteenth America Scholarship Pageantry Program - 09.01.24

Unsung “She”Rose Amelia Boynton Robinson, a woman whose bravery and determination changed the course of history. If you’ve ever felt inspired to stand up for what’s right, you’ll definitely want to hear about her journey!

Unsung “She”Rose Amelia Boynton Robinson Fight for Change

Unsung SheRose Amelia Boynton Robinson - Bloody Sunday March 7 1965 - Miss Juneteenth America - 09.01.24 - 2
Mrs. Boynton Robinson with a fellow marcher in 1965 after being knocked unconscious by Alabama troopers at the bridge. Credit…Pictorial Parade/Archive Photos/Getty Images

Born in 1911 in Savannah, Georgia, Amelia was a trailblazer from the start. She grew up in a time when segregation and discrimination were rampant, but that didn’t stop her from dreaming big. Amelia moved to Alabama, where she became deeply involved in the civil rights movement. She was not just a participant; she was a leader! She believed that everyone, regardless of their race, deserved equal rights, and she dedicated her life to making that dream a reality.

One of the most significant moments in Amelia’s life came during the Selma to Montgomery marches in 1965. Imagine this: thousands of people walking together, united for a common cause, facing danger and uncertainty. Amelia was right there at the front lines. She was one of the first women to lead a march across the Edmund Pettus Bridge—a pivotal event in the fight for voting rights. On “Bloody Sunday,” March 7, 1965, she and many others were met with violence. But instead of backing down, Amelia stood firm, showing the world just how powerful determination could be.

Amelia didn’t just march; she also helped organize voter registration drives. She understood that voting was key to bringing about change. She worked tirelessly to ensure that African Americans could exercise their right to vote, often facing threats and intimidation. But her spirit was unbreakable. She famously said, “You can kill a man, but you can’t kill an idea.” That’s the kind of attitude that inspires us to this day!

Your Voice Matters: Be the Change Like Amelia!

Amelia Boynton Robinson crossing the Edmund Pettus Bridge with President Obama on March 7 , 2015. Credit…Doug Mills/The New York Times

After the Selma marches, Amelia continued her activism. She traveled across the country, speaking about civil rights and the importance of education. She wanted young people, especially girls like you, to know that they could make a difference. She founded the Amelia Boynton Robinson Foundation, focusing on education and empowerment for future generations. Her goal was to inspire young girls to follow their dreams and fight for justice.

Even after her passing in 2015, Amelia’s legacy lives on. She taught us that activism isn’t just for adults; it’s something everyone can participate in, no matter your age. Whether it’s standing up against bullying, advocating for environmental issues, or fighting for equality, your voice matters!

So, what can we learn from Amelia Boynton Robinson? First, never underestimate the power of your voice. You have the ability to make a difference, even if it feels small. Second, remember that it’s okay to stand up for what you believe in, even when it’s tough. And lastly, don’t shy away from leadership opportunities! Like Amelia, you can inspire others and lead the way.

As you go through your own journey, think about the impact you want to make in the world. Amelia Boynton Robinson showed us that with courage, determination, and compassion, anything is possible. Let her story fuel your passion to create change, and remember—your future is what you make it!

All of the Unsung “She”Rose shared on our website are women that were chosen by our scholarship pageantry program participants and highlighted during our pageant event. Join us in celebrating the Unsung “She”Rose and honoring the profound impact of African American women in history! Together, we can ensure their stories are told, cherished, and remembered.

We’re excited to invite you back to our website to explore the latest updates on the Unsung “She”Rose initiative at https://missjuneteenth.org/unsung-sherose, honoring the incredible achievements of African American women throughout history. Discover new stories, profiles, and inspiring contributions that have shaped our world.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to celebrate these remarkable women who have paved the way for future generations.

Registration is now open for the 2025 Miss Juneteenth America Scholarship Pageantry Program!

The registration deadline is October 31, 2024

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