A Song for the Unsung: Bayard Rustin, the Man Behind the 1963 March on Washington
What’s inside...
A Song for the Unsung is a singular, richly illustrated picture book biography that highlights the life and contributions of Bayard Rustin, a pivotal but often overlooked figure in the Civil Rights Movement. As a gay Black man, Rustin was instrumental in organizing the 1963 March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom, where a quarter of a million activists gathered to demand racial and economic justice. Written by Carole Boston Weatherford and Rob Sanders, and illustrated by Byron McCray, this book offers an inspiring glimpse into the background work and challenges faced by Rustin, celebrating his significant role in advancing civil rights.
Age
6-10
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Bayard Rustin
Martin Luther King Jr.
A. Philip Randolph
Discussion points
Why do you think Bayard Rustin believed it was important to organize peaceful protests?
What qualities did Bayard Rustin have that made him a good leader?
How did Bayard Rustin's actions bring change during the Civil Rights Movement?
What challenges do you think Bayard Rustin faced, and how did he overcome them?
How can we apply Bayard Rustin's principles in our daily lives to make a positive impact?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before starting the book, ask your child what they know about the Civil Rights Movement to gauge their prior knowledge and build on it.
Pause at pivotal moments in the story to ask your child how they think Bayard Rustin felt or how they would feel in a similar situation.
Discuss the significance of teamwork and leadership displayed throughout the book, asking your child examples of when they had to be a leader.
After reading, encourage your child to think of modern-day social issues and discuss how lessons from Bayard Rustin’s life could be applied to these situations.
Create a family activity where each member talks about a person who inspires them and why, linking back to Bayard Rustin’s inspirational qualities.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Importance of advocacy and standing up for what is right
Explanation: The book portrays Bayard Rustin’s critical role in organizing the 1963 March on Washington, highlighting his courage and dedication to civil rights.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to speak out against injustice and support causes they believe in, whether it’s in school or within their community.
Example Lesson: Teamwork and leadership
Explanation: Bayard Rustin's collaboration with other leaders and organizers showcases the power of teamwork in achieving monumental goals.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to work cooperatively in group settings and take initiative in leading projects or group activities at school.
Example Lesson: Perseverance in the face of adversity
Explanation: Despite facing numerous challenges, including imprisonment and discrimination, Rustin remained steadfast in his commitment to civil rights.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of persisting through their own challenges, understanding that obstacles can be overcome with determination and resilience.
Example Lesson: The impact of strategic planning and organization
Explanation: Rustin's meticulous approach to orchestrating the March on Washington demonstrates the importance of careful planning and preparation.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the skills of organizing their activities or school projects, emphasizing the importance of preparation in achieving success.
Example Lesson: Respect for diversity and inclusivity
Explanation: Rustin, as a gay African American man, symbolizes the intersection of multiple social identities, advocating for inclusivity in the civil rights movement.
Real-World Application: This can help children embrace diversity and promote inclusivity among their peers, fostering an environment of respect and acceptance.