Wednesday, February 13, 2013

Freedom Riders




After viewing the video clips in class, explicate what you found  most surprising about the Freedom Riders, and if you were given the opportunity to speak to one of them, what would you say?

164 comments:

Anonymous said...

The freedom riders played a major part in history. If i had a chance to speak to one of them, I would say that you have made a change. Before i read the video,I didn't know anything about the freedom riders. I had a lot of questions like, Did they impact African Americans? I learned that you did. Thank you, because of you the world has made a huge impact.

Unknown said...

The most surprising part is the part when they said that National Guards were apart of the mob that didn’t want blacks to come into their town. If a freedom rider was here right now I would tell them thanks for fighting for our rights and your rights. One of my substitutes of my old school was freedom rider and she told me about how they were tricked into going into bad places. So I would say thank you for everything you have done.

Unknown said...

After whatching the video about the freedom riders in class it was suprising to me the way they stude up for what they belived.I know there where many peoeple envoved in the civil rights movement but some of the freedom rideres went above and beyond what african americans expected.For example when one freedom rider seen a african american restaurant and then looked at the whites he made a decion to go into the whites restaurant knowing that he was risking getting beat arrest and killed but that didn't matter. they were on a mission to make sure the u.s.a would have equal rights for blacks whites hispanic cocashion and all other races.All i know is that if i ever had a chance to talk to one of them i would start off by saying thank you for risking your life and being willing to die for our freedom.

Unknown said...

One of the most surprising moments in the video clips about the "Freedom Riders" was that they were students from various ethnic backgrounds. If I was given the opportunity to speak to one of them, I would say the following: 1. How did they overcome their fear of being arrested and beaten by police? 2. Did you think your actions would have such an impact in black history?

Unknown said...

Freedom Riders:Thank you for standing up and being strong in what you believe in. It's because of you that I have many opportunites today that wouldn't of had if you didn't do what you did.

Unknown said...

One of the most surprising moments in the video clips about the "The Freedom Riders" was when they where attached by over 1000 white people and the army like World War ||. If I was given the opportunity to speak to one of them I would ask: How did it feel to be one of the greatest people to change how African Americans live today.

Unknown said...

I fought the fact that they were young when they decided tto do this interesting to, it's another way of shoing us they we can make a change too. If I got the chane to meet one of the freedom riders I would thank for risking their live just so we could be treated equaly.

Unknown said...

A part of the clips that interested/stood out to me is the fact that no one cared whether you were white or black, if you were supporting African-Americans, you were treated the same way. I would thank them for risking their lives so the next generation would have a good future. I agree with Morgan M. because what they did could've been a motivation for others to try and make the world a better place, and I also agree with Kameron L. because what they did was above and beyond all expected because many others wouldn't have had the courage to do so.

Unknown said...

I agree with Daniella Odogwu. It really didn't matter what happened, if you were on the African Americans side, white people would treat you the same way. White people didn't care. If I had an opportunity to speak to one of the Freedom Riders, I would tell them "Thank you for the things you've did. It was very brave of you." I also agree with Morgan Mauldin.

Unknown said...

Freedom Riders are interesting ,and the most surprising thing is that they fought without giving up.We are now able to sit,dine, and learn in the same place without getting taken to jail.Half of us have no clue what the freedom riders did for us, and how they impacted our life.All the things they did deserve some kind of respect because they made a mark in black history.If we could talk to the Freedom Riders I would ask them,how did you find courage to fight for our right?Was it your chose to become a Freedom Rider?Did you know you that you were going to be harmed because of segregation ?The list would go on and on because they a
re an acute group of people with a lot of dedicaton,and we don't recoginze them. Freedom Riders has got beaten,killed ,threaten,tricked,and lied to for us ,and some of us don't treasure the right we have.After all, I would like to thank the Freedom Riders for making their extrodinary mark in black history.

Unknown said...

Freedom Riders are suprising because they never stop fighting for equal rights. Even if they were beat or put in jail they still fought. But I agrre with Morgan I think if I were to meet a Freedom Rider I would thank them for all the troubles they went through.

Unknown said...

Something that surprises me about the freedom riders is that they wouldn't give up no matter what the white people did to them. If I were to meet one I would say thank you for how brave you were back when white people would hurt African-Americans.

Unknown said...

was most What surprising about the Freedom Riders was that they played a big part of African American history just like Dr. Martin Luther King.If I was given the opportunity to speak to them right now I would say why was Dr. Martin Luther King wasn't in the group?

Unknown said...

I agree with Kennedy Jenkins because the Freedom Riders did play a major part in history

Unknown said...

I agree with Zahre because the never stop fighting for equal rights

Unknown said...

What I found most surprising abiut the Freedom Riders was that they were brave enough to go on an adventure on the South of the region, because I know I would have never did anything like that. If I had a chance to speak with one of them, I would choose Catherine Thomas, because as she was explaining their adventure it seemed so interesting. I would tell them that, they made a huge affect on black history, because everyone marched for equality, but they drove from state to state, city to city. Thank you, and Salute to you all!

Unknown said...
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Unknown said...

I found most surprising how they knew they had a life to live, but risked it to challenge racism. If I had the opportunity to speak to one of them I would say that you are the bravest, strongest Americans alive. Because of all the pain and suffering you've been through for my generation, I’m beyond the happiest person in the entire universe

Unknown said...

I agree with Kendall Shack because the National Guards should not be racist becaause every one should have a right to step foot in their town.

Unknown said...

What surprised me the most is that they did all that for the civil rights' yet their not in our social studies book, and in the book it says J.F.K helped in history, but the video said he wanted the Freedom Riders to be on the scene at that time. If i had the opportunity to speak with the freedom riders i would just ask " How did they do it i know they use non-violence,but at a certain point of being beaten i woul fight back?"

Unknown said...

I agree with Benjamin Holmes because the Freedom Riders did follow in Dr.Martin Luther King Jr.'s footsteps.

Unknown said...

I agree with both Daniella and Holly,because it really didn't matter if they were black or white they all were beaten and harassed in,the same way just for standing up for what they believe in.

Unknown said...

The part of the "Freedom Riders" that was surprising to me was when the angry mob had attack the bus. Plus, the police, soldiers, etc were part of the angry mob. If I were to tell a Freedom Rider how I felt about what they've done I would say thank you for all of what you did to not give up. That became the same thing I want to do. Thank you Freedom Riders.

Unknown said...

After viewing the video clips what was much surprising to me was the whites were also beat with the African -Americans I thought they would at least let the whites go on ,but they were furious with everyone on,the bus.The second thing that as surprising to me was ,the whites were on the bus with the blacks actually sittin together.Lastly if I had a chance to speak with the Freedom Riders I would ask them how they felt,then I would say are you proud of yourself and do you think you have accomplished anyhing.Then I would give them a thank you for letting me talk with them.

Unknown said...

I agree with Dailin because when the people came at the African Americans, they had to suffer.

Unknown said...

I agree with Daniella because it shouldn't matter if you're black or white everyone should be treated the same way. No matter what color or culture you should be treated as the Freedom Riders were.

Unknown said...

What was surprised me the most was; even though they may die they kept on going until there was a change and the end to segregation. If was I were giving the opportunity to speak to a freedom rider first and for most I would thank them for what they did to help end segregation. Next, I would ask them if they knew their was a possibility they could die or be brutally beat why would they go anyways. Also I would ask them what was going through their mind when they threw a flame in their bus and when they could hardly breathe. Did you think that people would just let you come in Alabama without doing anything? This is what I would say to the freedom riders.

Unknown said...

I agree with fredrick because withiut the freedom riders it would've a little bit more harder to end segregation.

Unknown said...

I agree with decarlo because no matter how much they were beat they decided to keep on going no matter what.

Unknown said...

As I was analyzing the movie called The Freedom Riders, I realized that there are things that I heard about and things I never heard of. I heard that they were African Americans, I heard that the freedom rides began in 1961, and I also heard that they wanted freedom for each and every African American. I didn't know that a mob caused the fire on that bus. Also I didn't know that some of the freedom riders were substitutes and they didn't get reconized for what they did in the past. If I had the oppurtunity to speak with a freedom rider I would ask them several questions about how they felt when that bus exploded. Also I would ask them what was it like to be treated that way and howcould they put up with it. I know it would have been hard for them but someone had to step up and be brave.

Unknown said...

What i found surprising is that the freedom riders had caucasian people on the bus when the mob's are willing to beat their on race; if i were able to speak to at least one of them i would say thank you for what you've done so far, and since we can't fight ourselves i want you to keep on truckin

Unknown said...

I agree with Kennedy J. because becase freedom riders played a important role throughtout the clips.

Unknown said...

I agree with Erica L. because they are interesting. Alson they were beaten and killed. they were beatened until they were in the hostpital.

Unknown said...

The Freedom Riders played a big part in history. What surprised me the most in the video clip was when, the police were suppose to guide the Freedom Riders to their destination, but instead they left them by them selves to give the angry mob a head start. When the Freedom Riders arrived white men set the bus on fire. They pushed the door closed for the Freedom Riders Couldn't escape. If I ever got a change to meet the Freedom Riders I would thank them for all they went through for Birmingham Alabama Racism.

Anonymous said...

In the videos that were showed in class, I learned that the Freedom Riders did play a big part in the civil rights movement during the 1600's. I was actually shocked that I had never heard about the freedom riders before, since they were a part of the African-American history. The surprising part was that white students were a part of the Freedom Riders. They were actually apart of the riots and the marches and trips. That really shocked me. Also, another surprising part was when the Freedom Riders were outside of Anniston on the Greyhound bus. The white mob was actually waiting for them at the site. When they got there, they were set up and stranded. All of a sudden, there was a bomb thrown into the bus with the Freedom Riders inside. They had been also left for dead. I was horrified that actual human beings would try to kill their own people.
If I had a chance to speak to a Freedom Rider today, I would actually tell them:"Thank You for everything that you have done to help African-Americans have the ability to do what they want, and the freedom that they deserve. Thank you so much. I really adore you and I am thankful for people like you who actually care. Thank you. "

Anonymous said...

I agree with Takyah G. I was surprised that they were very brave even though they had a chance of death before them. I too, know that they were probably scared and had never done something like that, and had never was placed into a life or death situation.

Unknown said...

What I found out most surprising to me is the fact that the Freedom Riders were beaten and some were killed on buses coming to Birmingham, Alabama to help us. They literally risked their lives to save us and help us get the rights we deserve. If I could speak to the Freedom Riders, I would say: Thank you for being in Alabama and saving us. Thank you also for ending segregation because if you didn’t, we wouldn’t have the opportunities we have today. I agree with Erica Lockhart because they have helped the country but only the leaders are recognized. I think all Freedom Riders should be recognized. I agree with Myranda because if the Freedom Riders didn’t try to help, we would be treated like dirt. Imagine being segregated and if you walk into a “white only” section. You would be called names beaten and more.

Unknown said...

I amossuprised ho the cop just sat there and let th crowd be people. I was also suprised at how peole such as the bus drivers didn't wan't to be around the freedom riders. I would say to a freedom rider thank you. Thank you for helping end segration. I agree with Kennedy because the have made a big change. Now we can ride wherever we want. I also agree with Kendall because how are you going to be apart of the Guard and you are participating in violence yourself.

Unknown said...
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Unknown said...

I agree with Kennedy J.because the freedom riders played a major part in history.

Unknown said...

After viewing the video clip in class today, what I found most surprising about the Freedom Riders is that they had white people in their group and they got the same treatment the blacks did, because I thought that since they were white, they would be treated better. If I had the chance to talk with one of the Riders, I would ask; What was it like riding on the greyhound and being beaten? Then I would ask; Do you think if the father of the little girl or another person who gave you water saw she do that, would beat her too? I would also say; Thank you for making a difference in this world.

Unknown said...

What I found most surprising about the Freedom Riders was that they didn't fight back when the mob attacked them and the police did nothing, but sit on their horse and watched. If I was given a chance to speak to one of them I would say," Thank you for having courage to stand up so we can sit wherever we want to, not just on the bus, but everywhere in the world and become what we want to be."

Unknown said...

I agree with Avante because they came to Birmingham without thinking about violence, but peace.

Unknown said...

I agree with Myranda because they risked their lives for the next generation of African Americans can have what they didn't have.

Unknown said...

If I were to talk to the Freedom Riders today, I would say thank you. They were brave enough to stand up for what they believed in and fight for the end of segregation. After viewing the clips in class, what I found most surprising and interesting is the fact that they were attacked many times so brutally. The Freedom Riders were attacked by whites at the bus stations because they were fighting for our freedom.

Unknown said...

After watching this video about the "Freedom Riders", the most suprising part to me was when they bombed the Greyhound bus. When the "Freedom Riders" had charged the bus door open to get so they wouldn't die. I can't believe the Caucasians were beaten just like the African Amercians. They literally risked their lives just to save us and help us get the rights we deserve. If I had the opportunity to speak to the 'Freedom Riders" I would tell them thank you for ending segregation. If i had the chance to ask the Freedom Riders. How did you react when the caucasions were beating them? Did you expect the mobs to beat you once you got of the bus.

Unknown said...

The most surprising part of the Freedom Riders is that they still traveled even after the mob bombing on the Greyhound Bus. If I had the chance to speak with one of the Freedom Riders, what I would ask him/her "What gave you the courage and strength to keep on traveling through the United States.

Unknown said...

What was so surprising to me about the Freedom Riders was that they were beaten worse than I expected them to be. I thought they were just going to have little cuts and scratches but I soon found out their wounds were extremely deeper; mentally and physically. If was given the chance to talk to a Freedom Rider, I would say “How did you overcome all your challenges knowing you could possibly die? Was it courage or the thought that people look up to you that kept you going?”

Unknown said...

What I found most interesting about the freedom riders is that they were brave enough to do that to have a better life.If I were given the opportunity to talk to a Freedom Rider I would thank them more than possible.I would tell them I'm so honred that you helped everyone colored to be treated equally and if they didn't do it I don't know who would.

Unknown said...

The most surprising part is when the whites tried to kill all the people on the Greyhound bus except the driver. The driver ran away and got off the buds away from he people who where on the bus. If I had the chance to speak to a freedom rider I would say thank you for all you did for African Americans.

Unknown said...

what i found most surprising about the freedom righters was that did not fight back they just sat there like nothing was happing,but now i understand that they were trained to not fight back because if they did they would have been playind into the role that the white people perceieved them as being.If i had the chance to speak to one of the freedom riders of course i would say thank you,but i would also asked them did they think that all their hard work was really going to make a change in the world i live in today

Unknown said...

The video actually surprised me. The freedom riders were very important back then so they every one tried to keep them in remembrance.

Unknown said...

The freedom riders are a courageous group that is very unknown. What suprised me most was that they are still alive. Lastly, if I had the chance to speak to them,I would say,"Your story should be told more because you should be congratulated for all you've done.We thank you for setting our country free.

Unknown said...

I agree with Fredrick Taylor because my heart goes out to all of the freedom riders.

Unknown said...

Also,I agree with Kendall Shack because you would think that the guards would help everyone but instead, they stabbed the blacks in the back

Unknown said...

One thing that suprised me about the "Freedom Riders" was that no matter how much they were tricked ,or beat they didn't give up. Also they risked their lives to get our freedom at such a young age. If I was given the opportunity to speak to a "Freedom Rider" I'd ask: "Why did you risk your life?" Also I'd ask "Weren't you scared about what was goin to happen to you?"

Unknown said...

I agree with Morgan M.,because they showed us that we can make a difference in the world.

Unknown said...

I was surprised that they kept riding, even after they were arrested and beaten. If I could talk to them I'd tell them that they were very brave and that they should be in the history books. Finally I'd tell them that I am happy and proud that they stood up for us and didn't fear death and gave us freedom.

Unknown said...

I agree with Derrin W. because the Freedom Riders’ story should be told more; they were an important part of the Civil Right movement.

Unknown said...

I agree with Kenneth D. because I was surprised when the Freedom Riders were attacked by the police and soldiers when they were supposed to be helping the Freedom Riders.

Unknown said...

The most surpising part of the video we watched in class is when 300 people(mob) beat 21 freedom riders with clubs,bats,and even chains.Before I watched the mini clips and the video,I didnt know who was the freedom riders were and how they made a impact on civil rights era.If I had to speak to one of the freedom riders,after you ended most of the segregation,did you stop doing the freedom rides or did you continue.Also did you all get mad when MLK Jr.said he didnt want to be a freedom rider.

Unknown said...

I also agree with Derrin W. and Benjamin F. because the freedom rider had an important part of the civil rights movemnt.

Unknown said...

I also agree with maranda b. because the freedom riders risked their lives for us (the next generation).

Unknown said...

The most surprising thing about the freedom was that they kept riding and going different places even though they were beaten almost everywhere they went. Also,if I had the change to speak to one of them I would say you made a change and kept fighting even though you were beaten multiple times.

Unknown said...

I agree with Cameron Humes when he said the most surprising part was when the mob beat 21 freedom riders.

Unknown said...

I agree with Erica Lockart when she said the most surprising part when they they fought without giving up

Unknown said...

When Kendall said that the most surprising thing to him about the Freedom Riders was when the National Guard was called to help protect the black people at the church, most of the mob went away. To me, if you are racists and your job calls for you to protect blacks, why get the job in the first place. The acuteness of segregation is intimidating, so in the back of their heads they should know they were going to have to get involved.

Unknown said...

I agree with Casey when he says the most surprising thing to him is when the bus driver was let off the bus and he didn’t get beaten. To me he should have got beaten to because he didn’t have to drive the Freedom Riders’ bus, he chose to.

Unknown said...

The most surprising thing about the Freedom Riders was when they had gotten beaten and did not fight back and did not stop they're freedom rides. If I was given a great chance to speak, I would say that we should not stop the freedom rides either because if we did, it is basically saying that we are giving up on our only chance to stop the major part of segregation, and also I would say that to not to fight back because the attacks/mobs or police officers would make up something to say they had a right to kill us because of self defense, and they could have won a law suit.

Unknown said...

I thought the most surprising thing about the Freedom Riders was about how they got beaten, and how they had mixed races as Freedom Riders. They were hurt, but had they faith and belief to continue. I thank the white people who went along with them. Even though they might have been beaten and called names they stuck with them because they knew it wasn’t right. The pain that the Freedom Riders went through wasn’t right, but it ended up making a change at the end. If I had the chance to talk to them I would say that I love the way you stood up for yourself and your rights. The pain and agony they went through was enough for people to see a change. You didn’t just change the United States you change the way of the world. I agree with Gabrielle McKay and Erica Lockheart.

Unknown said...

The thing i found most surprising was the way they took all the violence from the white mobs because they wanted to mentally fight for what they believed in. If I had the opportunity to speak to one them i wold tell them that they were being very brave for standing p for what is right, no matter how young they were. everthing they did led up to something marvelous and I am astonished by it. Also, i want to thank for everything and nothing else in the world can be compared to what you did.

Unknown said...

I agree with Daniella because some of the riders were white, but they still got beaten by the white people only because they helped support what the black people wanted.

Unknown said...

I agree with Myranda be cause the freedom riders did risk their lifes to help black people all over the world by ending segregation.

Unknown said...

What was most important to me about the freedom rider is that they were one of the main people in the Civil Rights Movement, when we thought people like Martin Luther King were the main people. All the people like Martin and Fred Shuttelsworth basically just took after the Freedom Riders, because without the Freedom Riders Martin and all the main Civil Right leaders wouldn't have made it that far. I would ask one of the Freedom Riders', did you enjoy going to jail for freedom, because it sure did look like it in the video I saw? I think they would say "Yes if it is the only way for us African American and Caucasian to be together.

Anonymous said...

The most surprising part to me is when the police and helicopters left them as soon as the Freedom Riders felt safe and left them to get beaten by the angry mob.If I could talk to one of them I would tell them thank you for getting beat and put in jail for all of us to be able to go in the same places, and not just go into colored places if you are colored or go into a white place if your white.

Anonymous said...

I agree with Kendall because I also thought when the National Guards were trying to help the angry mob kill Freedom Riders was a surprising event.

Anonymous said...

I agree with Kennedy because I also felt the Freedom Riders played a major part in history.

Unknown said...

While watching the several clips about the Freedom Riders in class, I’ve learned plenty that I never even knew was a part of black history month. Out of all of it the most ironic event was when the Freedom Riders were making their way through Anniston. After being mobbed by the Anniston Klan, some of the bus’s equipment wasn’t in best condition as it was before. By the time they had road a little bit farther down the road they had a flat tire in their hands. The ironic thing was that after the bus driver realized how miserable they were he just walked away. He didn’t even tell any of his passengers. Not only was that not expected, but I was even more surprised to see that when the bus had been set on fire the 11 yr. old girl helped them by giving them water and nourishment. Knowing what was mainly going on she still did what was the better thing to do instead of just standing there. If I were to see a Freedom Rider in their everyday setting such as Mrs. Catherine Burne-Brooks I would be speechless, but if it was one thing I would have to say I would promise them I would try to get them the recognition they deserve.

Unknown said...

I agree with Torri T. because at the meetings where they voted to continue the Freedom Rides or not you never heard not one person say no because they knew in order to have change you have to work hard and change as well.

Unknown said...

I agree to Erica L. because along with a few others before seeing these few documentaries I had no clue of who the Freedom Riders were or what impact they had on African Americans. I also feel that they are one of the main reasons why we have a Black History Month.

Unknown said...

After viewing the video clips in class, i was most surprised that Dr. King didn't join the Freedom Riders on their journey. Dr. King was an inspirational speaker and a nonviolent protestor so he would have benn an awesome Freedom Rider. When Dr. King didn't join the Freedom Riders I knew that he was thinking about his family and how they would've felt if he didn't arrive home with the survivng Freedom Riders. If I was given the opportunity to speak to one of the Freedom Riders (in the second group), I would tell them that they were extremely brave and strong to suffer the way that they did and not give up.

Unknown said...

I agree with Alexandria because no matter what the consequences wre, the Freedom Riders continued their journey and never gave up.

Unknown said...

I agree with Daniella because the whites that were with the Freedom Riders were also beaten and some whites felt that they were the race that deserved royalty.

Unknown said...

After watching the videos, I found it very shocking how brutally, and violently the Freedom Riders were beaten. I was also very surprised why Dr. King didn't join the Freedom Riders. If I were given the opportunity to speak to any of the Freedom Riders, i would congratulate them for their bravery and their spirit to fight for all of our equal rights.

Unknown said...

I agree with Parrish Wells because i do believe Dr. King was thinking of his family when he decided not to join the Freedom Riders.

Unknown said...

After viewing the video clips in class I was surprised at the amount of violence in Montgomery. The question I have in the back of my head was “How could you hate someone so much you would want to kill or hurt someone”. Also if I had the chance to speak to a freedom rider I would ask why you wanted to go to the most violent states in the south.

Unknown said...

I agree with Tayma Lopez because some whites did feel like they were the superior race

Unknown said...

I disagree with Yasmin Marks because they werent just standing there getting beaten, they were peacefully protesting.

Unknown said...

I agree with Casey Buchannon because it was just surprising how the bus driver was a coward and just left the Freedom Riders, not even willing to help them.

Unknown said...

What I found that was most surprising about the freedom riders was that they went around the nation and tried to make a change.If I was given the opportunity to speak to one of the freedom riders I would tell them that they did a very good job in trying to make a difference.Even though some of them got injured and hurt,they still tried to make a difference.

Unknown said...

I agree with Kenneth M. that it was surprising to see people getting beaten and not doing anything about it or not fighting back.

Unknown said...

I agree with Takyah Grady because the freedom riders were still standing as brave soldiers even though they could have died doing what they were doing.

Unknown said...
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Unknown said...

What I found to be most surprising is that the movement kelp moving.Even though the first group of Freedom Riders gave up, another group kelp the movement going. If I had a chance to talk to a Freedom Rider I would tell them,what they did made a change, because of you people aren't segregated by the color of their skin.

Unknown said...

I agree with Kennedy because,the Freedom Riders did play a major role in the Civil Rights Movement, and in history.

Unknown said...

If I had the chance to speak to a freedom rider, I would first want to hear their story then explain to them how their experience has made a huge impact on the world today. I was not surprised when I saw that the national guards was apart of the mob and so was the kkk. I agree with Kennedy because the freedom riders was a major part of history and without them, slavery would have still existed.
I disagree with Kendall because if you know what has been going on in that time period, then why would you be surprised that any "white man" around would like o be apart of the mob torturing and African American.

Unknown said...

I disagree with Nickolas A. because a group never gave up, they just were badly hurt so while they recovered, another group came.

Unknown said...

What I found most surprising about the video on the freedom riders is that the riders never gave up even though they were punched, kicked, and beaten from time and time again. If I had the chance to speak to one of them, I would ask ," How were you so successful with non-violence". In order for the riders to overcome violence, they used non-violence. If I were in 1961, I would never be able to be a freedom rider. I probably wouldn't show much restraint because of how the whites would be pounding on me. However, it's also a good reason why I wasn't there because the best for the job are being remembered today.

Unknown said...

I would agree with Mohagony P. because the riders came from mostly the North which is free, but they wanted their brothers and sisters to have the same type o freedom.

Anonymous said...

I agree with Torri T. I was also surprised that they never gave up no matter what happened them on their journey to freedom.

Unknown said...

After viewing the videos in class, the thing I found most surprising about Freedom Riders is that they survived lots of tragic things. Like, being in a bus were it gets caught on fire, being at places were your not welcome, people try to bad things to you, and the list goes on. If I had the opportunity to speak to one of the Freedom Riders, I would say to them thank you for all of your support, dedication, and for changing the future. I would also say I didn’t know a lot about you until my teacher, Mrs. Lavender, had showed my class and I videos and pictures about you all. After viewing all of the clips I’ve notice that they should also be recognized and not just Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Rosa Parks, Malcolm X, and others because they weren’t the only one’s who were fighting for a right so, I just think that people should just take a moment and learn about Freedom Riders.

Unknown said...

After viewing most of the video clips in class the most ironic thing that was in my mind at the time was that a white man was one of the freedom riders and he got beaten by other whites. This is ironic to me because I wasn’t expecting whites to fight their own race. If I had I had the privilege to speak to the Freedom Riders I would tell them thank you for taking the beatings for me so that I will have equal rights and freedom.

Unknown said...

I agree with Jaylyn Sherrod because the freedom riders didn’t just change things in the United States they changed things all over the world so that we will have equal rights.

Unknown said...

After viewing the videos in class, something I found very suprising is that no matter what hey never gave. Even after the bus was bombed they still continued their fight. The Freedom Riders risked their lives at a very young age with no regrets. And ended up making a huge difference in everyone's lives. One thing that really shocked me is how that got little to no recognition for their actions. If I had a chance to speak to a Freedom Rider, I would most definitely ask what regrets are and what would they have done differently.

Unknown said...

I agree with Kennedy Jenkins because they did make a huge impact on the world and the way we live today.

Unknown said...

I agree with Torri T. because I was also suprised that they never gave up no matter how hard times got.
I also agree with Daniella O. and Holly D. because the men that beat and tortured the Freedom Riders didn't care whether or not you were Caucasion or African-American they beat you nonstop because you weren't on their side. They wanted segregation from the African-Americans because they thought that African-Americans were nothing. They treated dogs better than African-Americans all because of their skin color.

Unknown said...

The thing that I saw surprising during the video clips about the Freedom Riders was that I didn’t know that the Freedom Riders were a part of The Civil Rights Movement, if I could talk to one of the Freedom Riders is : you did all that work and not no recognition was made for what you did . If you knew you that you wasn’t going to get recognition for anything that you did, why did you do it ? Why did you risk your life for nothing, you didn’t get a medal or anything, how did that make you feel? Did you want all the attention; do you think that the history books are lying to the youth of the United States of America? Did you ever think that you were going to die when you were on the bus? You were a part of history that the press and history books don’t want us to know about the Civil Rights Movement.

Unknown said...

What I found most surpriseing about the Freedom Riders was that the Geyhound and Trailways buses were not reserved for the Freedom Riders, but reguarly schelduled buses. Also if I had the chance to speak with< I would ask them before they started the Freedom Rides, did they have second thoughts about going into the deepest, most segerated parts of the south and try to change the minds of the most racist people those days? I also agree with Mahogany and Nicholas because no matter what the Freedom Riders kept moving on.

Unknown said...

The most surprising part is when even though they kept getting abused and sent to the hospital a plethora of times, they still had the courage to keep going back out there and trying to make a difference. If I had a chance to speak to one of them, I would say thank you for all they have done. Because without them, many of us wouldn't have the freedom that we do now.

Unknown said...
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Unknown said...

The most suprising thing that happened was when the angry mob threw a fire bomb into the Gray Hound bus.After watching the video I learned that the Freedom Riders played a huge role in the Civil Rights' history.Also if I had a chance to speak to one I would tell them they did a great job, and because of them and others there isn't anymore segregation

Unknown said...

I agree with Makayla Cole because it was surprising when the eleven year old girl tried to help the freedom riders.

Unknown said...

I agree with Parrish Wells because when the Freedom Riders were trying to make a change, Dr.King was as well. He wanted to tend to his own agenda though. He may have assumed that his would be the nonviolent way (the better way), while theirs was the violent way(the worst way.)

Unknown said...

The freedom rider made a Big change in History. They where beaten for our rights and some times we take it for granted. If a Freedom Rider was here today I would say, Thank You for not giving up on us and also Thank You for taking all of the hateful words and beating just so we the African American culture could have equal rights and we would be able to do all of the things that the Caucasian race could do as well. I agree with Daniella because it shouldn't matter if you're black or white everyone should be treated the same way.

Unknown said...

I agree with Makayla C. because a lot of people thought that Martin Luther King Jr. was the farther of the Civil Rights Movement but there was more people involved.

Unknown said...

I agree with Halle F. because the Freedom Riders did have to have courage and they never gave up .

Anonymous said...

After viewing the video clips in class, I found what the Freedom Riders did for us surprising. Not that I never heard of it happening before, but I just found it surprising that not as many people knew about it as well. The reason for this is because the Freedom Riders don’t get the recognition they rightly deserve. That’s another thing that surprises me because, they took beatings that many of us couldn’t. If we did we would have to be determined like they were and we would have to have bravery like they did. If I were given the opportunity to speak to one of them, I would say, “At first, I didn’t understand why you guys kept going and all you were doing was getting beaten, but then I had to remember how deeply you were determined to end the injustice that was going on at the time. I guess I would have to actually experience how it was back then, and how you were living. I couldn’t imagine everyday being called a Negro and having to go drink in a “Black only” water fountain, or to have to sit in the back of the bus or stand when I had the right to sit down. Now I see that you were sick and tired of it and wanted things to change. If it wasn’t for you and all the other heroes, African Americans would be where we are today. Thank you and all your fellow Freedom Riders.”

Sawani said...

After viewing the video clips in class, I think the most ironic thing that I found out was that President Kennedy and Attorney General Robert Kennedy did little to protect the riders until drastic measures called for them to. The president’s duty is to protect all citizens, but during this time frame the president didn’t protect the Freedom Riders until they had been beaten severely. It as was a shock to me that the Attorney General, Robert Kennedy, signed a treaty with the mayor of Mississippi stating that they could arrest the riders. I felt it was cruel of them to take them to a prison that is known for having severe punishments for their prisoners. This utterly disgust me considering that he sent individuals to prison that did nothing wrong only to ‘teach them a lesson.’ If I were given the opportunity to speak to one of them, I’d tell them: “You all have some a great heart” To fight for desegregated lunch counters and buses and experience a lot of discrimination but still move on that is incredible. I know I wouldn’t have the guts nor the heart to anything so powerful or so life changing. It is just like one of our journal entries state, the Freedom Riders didn’t do what they did for recognition they did it so the future generations could have a better lifestyle than they did.

Anonymous said...

I agree with Eligah W. because I would probably fight back as well. I forgot all about how the Freedom Riders were a non-voilent group. I wonder how they could just get beaten and then not do anything about it exept to keep moving foward. I'd be extreamly interested in how they delt with that.

Anonymous said...

I also agree with Dimond B., because I thought about why they didn't let the other white Freedom Riders go throughout the video. But then we have to remember that they hated all the Freedom Riders, even the white ones, because they were trying to change the way thing were, but the other whites against the whites didn't want that to happen. If they had let the other whites go, the Freedom Riders goal would've probably been accomplished much faster.

Sawani said...

I disagree with Elijah W. because I don’t really understand your response. You said that in the book it says J.F.K helped in history, but the video said he wanted the Freedom Riders to be on the scene at that time. That doesn’t make any sense. How did he want the Freedom Riders to be on the scene at that time? They were at the scene at that time! I feel you should look over your response because once you do you’ll find that it is very confusing for others to understand. Also, I feel that you should explain more why it is shocking to you that the Freedom Riders aren’t recognized. I would probably be able to understand your writing more it you had more details to explain your reasons.

Unknown said...


After viewing the video clips in class, the most surprising thing to me about the Freedom Riders was they were strong enough to take a beaten even if they were risking their life. They were so focus on integrating things that no one could step in their way. The Freedom Riders took a huge step in making life as an American equal. As for the First Amendment it says that “ Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances." So if I had the opportunity to say something to the Freedom Riders I will say there’s no way life could be like this without you.

Sawani said...

I agree with Jordan E. because also surprised me on how much tragic things the riders experienced. I know I couldn’t have gone through all of that. They did what no other person could have done. They experienced what people in today’s world didn’t. They inspire me to do my best and more. Jordan E. did an excellent job getting this point across. I couldn’t have said it any better myself.

Unknown said...

I think one of the suprising parts was when the greyhound bus got bombed and that the policeman came so late to break it up. If I had a chance to speak to a freedom rider I would first say thank you, and then ask he/she from your experience how did you feel when you crawled off that bus, and what went through your mind.

Unknown said...
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Unknown said...

Sorry for really late entry, but what surprise me most was how they keep trying, but they never gave up. If that were me I wouldn’t be nonviolent I would fought back but I know I wouldn’t win because that’s not the way to go. How they got beaten was a thing that surprise my too was the way they (white people) beat them they beat them just because of our skin color.
If I was given an opportunity to interview one of the freedom riders I would probably ask them “What was like living for the future generations’ freedom?” “Were you surprised when you and your fellow freedom riders got a lot of protection?”, and one final question “Do you have dreams about the people that hurt you?”

Unknown said...

I apologize for my late entry, but what surprised me most about the Freedom Riders was how they kept pushing/fighting for their equality in the Deep South or anywhere.Even after they had gotten beaten they still kept going on with what they believed in. If I had the opportunity to speak with one of the Freedom Riders I would ask how they kept striving what for what they believed and after being severely beaten what gave them the courage to go on with the rides?

Unknown said...

Please excuse my late entry. From this video the most interesting thing I found out about the Freedom Riders is that even though they were severely beaten, they never gave up. Different individuals had the courage to not be afraid to search for freedom, instead of holding it all in. Once the 1st group of Freedom Riders were taken down, individuals still had faith to build another group up. If I had the opportunity to speak with one of the Freedom Riders, I would first start off by telling them, “Thank you”. Thank you so much for taking the initiative to fight not only for your rights, but for the rights of your entire race. This video inspired me to certainly be grateful for you and not take you for granted. What if I were in your footsteps…?? This video was a war for my soul.

Unknown said...

I agree with Amaya Moultrie saying white people beat us only because of our skin color. However, they also beat us because they saw us as property. They would use us up and throw us out. They didn’t see us as human; they treated their pets better than they treated us. Instead of having to pay for a maid, they could get and trade a slave for free. Whites used blacks to work because they knew we were strong.

Unknown said...

I agree with Nick Adams because even though the first Freedom Riders group failed, individuals kept trying and trying until they had more Freedom Riders to stop segregation.

Anonymous said...

I agree with Rachel,because the only thing they did was use us until we died or gave up.

Anonymous said...
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Anonymous said...

I agree with Nick because we didn't give up we kept moving forward with pride.

Unknown said...

What I found most surprising about the freedom riers is that they can live right next door to you and you would not even know,because alot of people and myself did not know about them and the great things they did.If I was given the chance to speck to one of them,all I would say is thank you for your brave acts and you made it so I can be were I am.

Unknown said...

I agree wit kennedy,they did play a super big role in African American History

Unknown said...

I agree with Rachel,the freedom riders never gave up and when something bad happen they use it and made it good.

Unknown said...

The most suprising thing about the Freedom Riders were that they didn't fight back and never gave up. If I was a Freedom Rider, I probably wouldn't have been able to keep going. Those people were very brave and I have very much respect for them. If I were to meet a Freedom Rider, I would say "How could you keep going on the journey, when you knew you would get severly beaten or killed?"

Unknown said...

I agree with Sawani because they really did little to help protect the Freedom Riders.

Unknown said...

I also agree with Rachel because the group of people never gave up and kept trying no matter what.

Unknown said...


What really caught my eye while watching the freedom riders was when the freedom riders sent several different groups out to Alabama and Mississippi to get their message across that no human being would stop them from sending the message that everyone should have freedom.Honestly if I were to meet the Freedom Riders I would ask them what inspired them to go on these trips and was it difficult to not fight back when they were beaing you

Unknown said...

I would like to agree with Jordan Embry if they were brave enough to go back again and again after being injured and nearly killed who knows what other major things they would have done

Unknown said...

I would like to agr3e with Aniyah Brown,because if you were not brave enought to take many trips back then today in America most of the things we like to do we would not be able to so I would really like to thank you for all you have to done to help African-Americans in the U.S.

Unknown said...
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Unknown said...

The most surprising thing about the Freedom Riders is seems like they were the ones that ended the civil war and are not talked about much. People mostly talk about Martin Luther King Jr. and Rosa Parks. If I had the chance to talk to the Freedom Riders I would say ''Thank you so much you did so much for us blacks you should be the ones with all this recognition that other people get.''

Unknown said...

What surprised me about the Freedom Riders was how there were white Freedom Riders who volunteered to travel to Jacksonville, even though they knew that they would be arrested. If I had the chance to speak to one of the Freedom Riders I would say that you have really made a difference in African Americans' lives.

Unknown said...

The suprising part was when the freedom riders were trapped inside the bus with all that smoke.If I had a chance to speak to a or to some freedom riders I would ask them 1.Why was they beat every single day 2.Why did you all want to keep on getting beat everyday and still want to go to New Orleans ,Louisiana

Unknown said...

I agree with with Gabrielle M.,because I thought the whites would be treated differently even thuogh they were with the blacks.

Unknown said...

I agree with Kennedy J., because Freedom Riders have made a change on the world.

Unknown said...

I agree with Makayla Cole because they were beaten many times trying to stop segeration.

Unknown said...

I agree with Torri Tippett because even though tehy were beaten really bad they did nt quit fighting for there rights.

Unknown said...

The freedom riders are a courageous and brave group that is very unknown. What suprised me most was that they are still alive. If I had the chance to speak to them,I would say,"People should be told more about you, because you have helped our country and on behalf of my country I say thank you for all you've done."

Unknown said...

I agree with Daniella Odogwu. It really didn't matter what happened, if you were on the African Americans side, white people would treat you the same way. White people didn't care. If I had an opportunity to speak to one of the Freedom Riders, I would tell them "Thank you for the things you've done."

Unknown said...

I agree with Decarlo, because no matter how much they were punched or kicked or shoved, they decided to keep going no matter what happened to them.

Unknown said...

I apologize for my late entry. The one thing I found surprising about the Freedom Riders is how brave they were to go and risk their lives for freedom. It surprised me that most of them didn’t die during all of the beatings. If I were to speak to a freedom rider today I would ask them a lot of questions. I would ask them question like why did you go and risk your lives for freedom. I would ask for more details on how they got to places and what exactly happened while they were there. I would ask was it very scary or were they just not showing it in there expressions. I would then say thank you for your time. Again I am very sorry for my late entry.

Unknown said...

I agree with Marcell because the freedom riders were brave for the things they did.

Unknown said...

I agree with Amaya Moultrie because white people did things to us because we were black, there was no other reason why they did it,it was just our skin color they didnt like.

Anonymous said...

I apologize for my late entry. This was because I wasn’t able to access a computer over the weekend.
What I found most surprising about the Freedom Riders was that there were big mobs of white people who attacked the buses. What I also found astonishing, was that there was a young lady who actually tried to help the Freedom Riders after they, white people, finally got off of the bus that had been bombed. If I had the chance to speak to one of the Freedom Riders, I would thank them for working so hard to allow blacks to sit anywhere they wanted on a bus. Without you all we wouldn’t be able to ride a bus.
I would like to agree with Roneisha Edmund because yes, if you they didn't keep pushing towards their goal after all they went through, we wouldn't be where we are today. I would also like to agree with Nickolas Adams because they do deserve some credit because all of our focus goes to Martin Luther King Jr. & Rosa Parks.

Jay said...

I found it interesting that the Freedom Riders never got recognition for what they did.If I had the chance to speak to a Freedom Rider I'd thank them for their hard work and bravery.I'd also tell them about how I would always support that they did and try my best to get them the recognition they deserve.

Jay said...

I also apologize for my late entry.

Jay said...

I agree with K. Langford because it's true the Freedom Riders had a huge impact on the civil war but I'd like to point out that they didn't always get the recognition they deserved.

Jay said...

I agree with Sawani but even though the president didn't take action towards segregation during the film it said that President Kennedy was dealing with how to solve much bigger problems.Need I remind you that he was the president.

Unknown said...

What I was most surprised about the Freedom Righters, was how it started. When I first heard about it, I thought it started because an African American didn’t give up there seat to a white person. But I was wrong and that is not how it started at all. Also, if I were given the opportunity to speak to one of them I would say you are one brave person. I would thank them for doing what they had done. But most of all tell them they are not selfish at all. I would also say that, even though you all knew that you all were going to die. You all did not stop fighting. You were almost beaten to death, but you kept fighting. So with that said, I thank every last one of the Freedom Righters for your braveness and your courage.

Unknown said...

I agree with Casey, because the bus driver should have gotten beaten. But really no one should have got beaten

Unknown said...

I agree with Takayah Grady, because the Freedom Righters could have died. They even knew they could, but they could have died