In 1957, a significant event took place when Dorothy Counts, a 15-year-old African American student, bravely embarked on her first day at Harry Harding High School in Charlotte, North Carolina, becoming the first African American student in the newly desegregated school. However, her time at the school was marred by four days of relentless harassment that posed a serious threat to her safety. As a result, her parents made the difficult decision to withdraw her from the school. Their intention was to ensure that Dorothy did not generalize all white people based on her traumatic experience at Harry Harding High School. Consequently, she was sent to live with her aunt and uncle in Yeadon, Pennsylvania, where she completed her sophomore year at an integrated public school. In contrast to her ordeal at Harry Harding High School, her experience in Yeadon was pleasant and more inclusive.
In 2006, a turning point occurred when Dorothy received an email from William “Woody” Cooper, who courageously admitted to being one of the boys depicted in the famous photograph. Cooper expressed his sincere desire to apologize. They arranged to meet for lunch, where Cooper humbly asked for forgiveness. Dorothy graciously responded by saying, “I forgave you a long time ago, this is opportunity to do something for our children and grandchildren.” They agreed to share their story and from there, did many interviews and speaking engagements together.
By Rachael Shieley
