Events scheduled to commemorate Brown ruling's
50th anniversary

In recognition of the 50th anniversary of the historic Brown v. Board of Education decision by the U.S. Supreme Court, the Judicial Council and the Administrative Office of the Courts will hold a symposium in Sacramento May 17. The day-long event will include several prominent speakers and who will consider Brown's legacy and examine the decision from a historical perspective.

In addition, an interactive gallery-quality art exhibit, entitled "The Long Walk to Freedom," will be on display from April 27 through May 14 at the State Building in San Francisco. Currently in Stockholm, Sweden, the traveling exhibit highlights the contributions of 28 American civil rights activists — many from California — who helped change the face of our nation. It includes historical and contemporary photographic portraits, archival materials, a graphic timeline and video.

Once the exhibit is installed in San Francisco, it will be open to the public.

The State Bar Board of Governors unanimously passed a resolution in January acknowledging the significance of Brown on ensuring equal protection of the law for all Americans.

The board also voiced its support for the efforts of local, minority, specialty and women's bar associations commemorating the decision. The ruling will be highlighted at the bar's Spring Summit in June.