The Civil Rights Movement won a lot of victories. Many of the icons of this movement will never be forgotten. However, we must also make sure that the work of other activists will be remembered too. They were everyday people who fought against discrimination and prejudice. Unfortunately, they may never find their names in a history book, on a display board or in a museum. As communities, we must discover these amazing citizens and honor them. The Friendship 9, a group of students and activists, claimed a rightful place in history by challenging inequality and unfair laws. Their efforts should always inspire us to take care of each other, learn from our struggles and most importantly, continue to create a world free of racism and social injustice.
The unwillingness to listen can make discrimination last, but learning about history can open up the past. Though the Friendship 9 wanted success, they were not afraid to fail; even when those struggles landed them in jail!
Friendship 9 Celebration & Book Launch Palmetto Room in Rock Hill - March 14, 2014
Vanessa J. Thompson, Illustrator (left) and Kimberly P. Johnson, Author (right) posing with some of the surviving Friendship 9 members.
Vanessa J. Thompson, Illustrator (left) and Kimberly P. Johnson, Author (right)
Vanessa (left) and Kimberly (right) signing copies of the No Fear For Freedom: The Story Of The Friendship 9 book
Vanessa J. Thompson, Illustrator (left) and Kimberly P. Johnson, Author (right) posing with some of the surviving Friendship 9 members.
In the words of my father, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., “There comes a time when one must take a position that is neither safe, nor politic, nor popular, but he must take it because conscience tells him it is right.” I believe that this quote describes the 1961 bravery of the Friendship 9. The story of these unsung heroes is a great example of the courage exemplified by the young people of the 1960’s Movement era. Their actions were not just about seeking change in discriminatory practices against them, but to make things better for the generations that would follow them. I applaud Kimberly Johnson fortelling this important story and pray that through this book, today’s youth and the next generation will be inspired and encouraged to continue theMovement by standing up for what is right, for truth, and for justice.
Dr. Bernice A. King
Last born daughter of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Mrs. Coretta Scott King CEO, The King Center
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Kimberly Johnson has captured the historic struggle of the Civil RightsMovement within our county and our community. This readable and insightful presentation will be informative for all ages and helps us to understand the reality of prejudice, and the personal responsibility to continue to work for its elimination. The courage of the Friendship 9 and others who led the way will live on and set the example for all who read thisbook and share it with others. Respect and appreciation for all people must be a part of who we are - our core values.
Doug Echols, Mayor • Rock Hill, South Carolina
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I am delighted that a book about a very crucial event in the Civil RightsMovement happened right here in Rock Hill, S.C. Knowing many of the students involved, some only a few months out of high school, made me proud of their decision. My position in the community was a white religious brother working as a recreation center director at a church in the heart of theAfro-American community. After their graduation from the all black high school, namely Emmett Scott, some students would attend Friendship JuniorCollege, which was a few blocks away. In her book, “No Fear for Freedom:The Story of the Friendship 9” author, Kimberly P. Johnson describes the situation very clearly. She also resounds the hope that everyone held in their heart, “Let my people go.”
Bro. David Boone, C.O.
