For Immediate Release

Contact: Anthony Twyman
Public Relations Coordinator
Community College of Philadelphia
Office: (215) 751-8082
atwyman@ccp.edu

Brown v. Board of Education Decision 50th Anniversary at Community College of Philadelphia

Philadelphia, PA, April 8, 2004 - Community College of Philadelphia will celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the Brown v. Board of Education decision with a two-day symposium on April 14 and 15. State Representative James Roebuck will join David Kairys, Professor at Beasley Law School, Temple University, and other guest speakers to examine historical, legal and cultural aspects of the ruling.

The United States Supreme Court unanimously declared that separate education facilities for black and white students are "inherently unequal" and, as such, violate the 14th Amendment to the US. Constitution which guarantees "equal protection of the laws."

All events are free and open to the public. Events will be held at Community College of Philadelphia, Center for Business and Industry, corner of 18th and Callowhill Streets, room C2-28.

Wednesday, April 14
10:00 - 11:05 a.m.
More or Less Equal: Brown v. Board Changed Everything and Very Little
An examination of the historical, legal and cultural aspects of the ruling with David Kairys, Professor of Law, Beasley Law School at Temple University.

11:15 a.m. - 12:10 p.m.
The Psychological Impact of Brown: 50 Years of School Desegregation Efforts
Although the legal battle was won many years ago, the goal of equal educational opportunity remains elusive. With Richard Frei, assistant professor of behavioral sciences, Community College of Philadelphia.

Thursday, April 15
12:30 - 2:00 p.m.
Brown v. Board: Perspectives from Across the Disciplines
A screening of the video Jim Crow followed by a panel discussion with faculty members Jacqueline Akins, instructor of history; Gary Mullin, associate professor of political science; and Ralph Faris, professor of sociology.

2:00 - 3:15 p.m.
Current Legislative Perspectives: State and Federal
State Representative James Roebuck and Democratic Chairman of the House Education Committee and a Community College of Philadelphia Trustee will discuss current political efforts to make the promise of equal educational opportunity a reality for all.

3:15 p.m.
Closing Reception