In this episode of Ellis Conversations, co-host Jamil Ellis and his father, retired federal magistrate Judge Ronald Ellis, reflect on the 71st anniversary of Brown v. Board of Education—not just the 1954 decision, but its overlooked 1955 follow-up. They explore the legal and societal impacts of desegregation mandates, the resistance that followed, and how today's rollback of civil rights enforcement—particularly around school desegregation—echoes familiar patterns.
With real-life stories, including Ruby Bridges and Prince Edward County's school closures, the conversation traces decades of policy evolution—from Milliken v. Bradley to Roberts Court rulings that undermine systemic remedies for segregation. The episode also offers generational perspectives on optimism, protest, and the need for youth leadership in safeguarding educational equity.
👉 If you're concerned about the dismantling of civil rights protections in education and policing—or wondering how to equip young people to carry the legacy forward—this one’s for you.
🔗 Relevant Links & References:
Axios Article on Lousiana Schools - https://www.axios.com/2025/05/02/doj-decades-old-school-desegregation-louisiana
Brown v. Board of Education (1954 & 1955 decisions)
https://www.oyez.org/cases/1940-1955/347us483
https://www.oyez.org/cases/1940-1955/349us294Milliken v. Bradley (1974)
https://www.oyez.org/cases/1973/73-434Parents Involved in Community Schools v. Seattle School District No. 1 (2007)
https://www.oyez.org/cases/2006/05-908Ruby Bridges Foundation
https://rubybridges.foundation
Shelby County v. Holder (2013 Voting Rights Act decision)
https://www.oyez.org/cases/2012/12-96American Psychological Association – Implicit Bias
https://www.apa.org/ed/university/implicit-biasThe Heritage Foundation's "Project 2025" (mentioned indirectly)
https://www.project2025.org
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