Rosa Parks: Fight for Freedom
#7 of 11 in Landmark Books Series
What’s inside...
A biography of the woman whose actions led to the desegregation of buses in Montgomery, Alabama, in the 1960s and who was an important figure in the early days of the civil rights movement.
Character compass
Rosa Parks
Raymond Parks
E.D. Nixon
Martin Luther King Jr.
Discussion points
Why do you think Rosa Parks decided not to give up her seat on the bus?
How did Rosa Parks' actions make a difference in the fight for civil rights?
What would you do if you were in a situation where you saw someone being treated unfairly?
Can you think of other ways people can peacefully protest against injustice today?
How do you feel when you stand up for something you believe in?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to put themselves in Rosa Parks' shoes and imagine how they would feel in her situation.
Discuss the importance of standing up for what is right, even when it is difficult.
Highlight the impact one individual can have on changing the world for the better.
Use examples from the book to explain the concept of peaceful protest and ask your child what peaceful actions they can take to support justice.
After discussing the questions, encourage your child to draw a picture or write a short story about a time they stood up for what they believed was right.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage in standing up for oneself and others
Explanation: The book demonstrates Rosa Parks' bravery when she refuses to give up her seat on the bus, sparking the Montgomery Bus Boycott.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by confidently expressing their own feelings and defending their rights or the rights of others in challenging situations.
Example Lesson: The impact of peaceful protest
Explanation: Rosa Parks' nonviolent approach effectively initiates change and highlights the strength of peaceful resistance during the civil rights movement.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn to resolve conflicts and stand up for what they believe in through dialogue and peaceful methods, rather than resorting to aggression.
Example Lesson: Importance of self-respect and dignity
Explanation: Throughout her ordeal, Rosa Parks maintains her dignity, despite facing harsh discrimination, which becomes a cornerstone of her character in the story.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to remain respectful and maintain self-worth regardless of external circumstances or pressures.
Example Lesson: Historical awareness and its relevance
Explanation: The book educates about the historical context of racial segregation and the civil rights movement, making history relatable and significant.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to delve deeper into history, promoting a better understanding of its impact on current societal structures and fostering a deeper respect for diverse cultures and backgrounds.
Example Lesson: The power of a single individual to inspire change
Explanation: Rosa Parks' actions exemplify how one person's bold choices can inspire widespread social change and influence a larger community.
Real-World Application: This teaches children that their actions, however small, can contribute to larger community benefits and encourages them to participate actively in societal issues.