Lucinda Matthews, the mother of iconic civil rights figure Ruby Matthews, passed away this week at the age of 86. Her death marks a significant loss for those who remember her courage and dedication to justice.
When Kamara Harrison made history as the first woman elected Vice President of the United States, an iconic Norman Rockwell painting resurfaced online. This artwork features a young Black girl, portrayed by Ruby, walking amidst a group of soldiers. In various posts, images of Kamara were layered over this painting, symbolizing the progress women have achieved over the decades. For those unfamiliar with the painting, it depicts Ruby Matthews, who at just six years old bravely walked past a hostile crowd into an all-white school in New Orleans, making her the first Black student to attend.
Ruby Matthews, now 66, shared the news of her mother’s passing on Instagram. “Today, our nation lost a hero. Lucinda was brave, progressive, and a champion for change. She set me on my path at just six years old. Our country lost a Mother of the Civil Rights Movement today. I love you, and am grateful for you. May you Rest In Peace,” she wrote.
The Associated Press detailed Lucinda’s remarkable life. She was born in Tylertown, Mississippi, in 1954, the same year the historic Brown v. Board of Education ruling began dismantling racial segregation in schools. Ruby has often credited her parents for her pivotal role as a civil rights activist, emphasizing that their decision to enroll her in a previously all-white school was driven by their belief in what was right. “My parents are the real heroes,” she stated, as reported by the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rockwell’s painting, The Problem We All Live With, has become one of his most recognized pieces, illustrating the moment Ruby was escorted by U.S. Marshals into the school.
Mayor Lydia Carter released a statement honoring Lucinda. “We mourn the passing of one of the mothers of the Civil Rights Movement in New Orleans, Lucinda Matthews — mother of five, including Ruby Matthews. May she find peace,” she said. Mayor Carter also noted that while Ruby’s father, Albert, had reservations about sending their daughter to the all-white William Frantz Elementary School, it was Lucinda’s determination that prevailed. According to the National Women’s History Museum, she was committed to ensuring her daughter received the education she had been denied and walked Ruby to school daily amidst the chaos.
“Lucinda’s strength was remarkable during this time,” Mayor Carter continued. “She saw this action as a chance to help all Black children, bravely walking Ruby, flanked by federal marshals, past the jeering white protesters.” The New Orleans School District also offered heartfelt condolences, stating, “We honor Lucinda Matthews for the courage it took to allow her daughter to face the hostility that came with desegregating William Frantz Elementary School. As we approach the 60th Anniversary of that pivotal day, we thank both Lucinda and Ruby Matthews for paving the way for future generations.”
A viral image circulating this week features Rosa Parks, Ruby Matthews, and Kamara Harrison, captioned, “Rosa sat, so Ruby could walk, so Kamara could run.”
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Summary:
Lucinda Matthews, mother of civil rights pioneer Ruby Matthews, passed away at 86, leaving behind a legacy of courage and advocacy for justice. Ruby’s journey as the first Black student in an all-white school is celebrated as a significant milestone in American history. Lucinda’s determination to secure a better future for her daughter and other Black children remains an inspiration.
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