What an incredible Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day in Philadelphia! For the first time, Safe Routes Philly and Vision Zero PHL coordinated celebrations across the city on Friday November 14, joining students nationwide standing up for justice, kindness, and equity.
“Ruby Bridges reminds us that real strength and courage don’t always come in the form of loud roars, but oftentimes show up in the quiet, yet determined, steps we take daily. It’s those efforts of consistency, perseverance, and bravery that change history,” said Sabriya Jubilee, PhD, Chief of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. “The School District of Philadelphia is proud to partner with the City of Philadelphia to celebrate her living legacy by encouraging students to walk to school together and engage in critical conversations about anti-racism, kindness and the fierce courage that makes history.”
“I was proud to introduce a resolution officially recognizing November 14th as Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day in Philadelphia”, said Councilmember Cindy Bass (8th District). “In 1960, Ruby became a national symbol of the civil rights movement when she integrated an all-white school as a first grader. Today, school communities across Philadelphia walk in her honor. We encourage our students to talk about equity, activism, and creating positive change in their communities.”
This year’s event saw participation from schools around the city, including:
- Alexander Adaire School
- Bache-Martin School
- Edward Gideon School
- Eleanor C. Emlen School
- George W. Nebinger School
- James Logan School
- Southwark School
“Safe Routes Philly was so excited that schools across Philadelphia organized celebrations and dedicated time for students to learn about Ruby’ Bridge’s life,” said Caroline Robertson, Vision Zero Education Coordinator. “This is the first year Safe Routes Philly officially participated in Ruby Bridges Day, and it will surely not be the last. Walking, biking and rolling to school inherently builds community. Today we saw what is possible when we connect celebrating active transportation with messaging and activities designed to inspire students to, like Ruby, better their own communities through courage and kindness.”
According to the National Center for Safe Routes to School, events like this can increase the number of students who walk and bike to school. Students who walk and bike regularly have better attendance, grades, and behavior. Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day reminds us how important it is to build community between our schools and the children and families they serve. Walking and rolling to school together does just that.
“We are excited to come together as a community, celebrate Ruby’s courage, and remind our students that treating others with respect and walking alongside one another makes us stronger,” said Tammy Thomas, Principal of the Eleanor C Emlen School. “Her courage continues to inspire the entire community at Emlen to take steps together toward justice, kindness, and equity.”
Ruby Bridges Day marks the conclusion of Safe Routes Philly’s Fall program: Walktober 2025. Since the season began on National Walk and Roll to School Day, hundreds of Philadelphia students have walked and rolled to school together with their communities. Safe Routes Philly thanks every Walktober 2025 participant, including the 400+ students and families who walked together November 14 and reflected on Ruby Bridges’ courageous act integrating William Frantz Elementary School in 1960. Her bravery has inspired generations, and Philadelphia’s students are proud to celebrate her living legacy.
