Born: 1956 (Selma, Alabama)
Biography:
Sheyann Webb-Christburg (born February 17, 1956) is a civil rights activist known as Martin Luther King Jr.’s Smallest Freedom Fighter and co-author of the book Selma, Lord, Selma. As an eight-year-old, Webb took part in the first attempt at the Selma to Montgomery march across the Edmund Pettus Bridge on March 7, 1965, known as Bloody Sunday.
Early Life:
Webb was born on February 17, 1956, in Selma, Alabama, to John and Betty Webb. She grew up in a family of eight children. As a child, she attended the segregated public schools of Dallas County, Alabama until she was one of the first black children to integrate an all-white school. At this school, she faced discrimination and was subjected to physical and verbal abuse. She was pushed down stairs, called derogatory names, and spat on. Despite these challenges, Webb’s experiences during this time would shape her future activism.
The Beginning of her Activism:
In January 1965, Webb and her friend Rachel West attended a civil rights meeting at Brown’s Chapel AME Church. This marked the beginning of Webb’s activism. She became passionate about the civil rights movement and started skipping school and sneaking out of her house at night to attend meetings and demonstrations. Her commitment to the cause was so strong that she even brought home freedom fighters to stay at her house, risking punishment from her parents.
Meeting Martin Luther King Jr.:
During her involvement in the civil rights movement, Webb and West had the opportunity to meet Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Webb describes meeting him as one of the most impactful events of her life. She saw Dr. King as a strong and patient man, whose message resonated with people of all ages. This encounter inspired Webb to continue her activism beyond her childhood.
Bloody Sunday:
The catalyst for the historic Selma to Montgomery march was the murder of Jimmie Lee Jackson, a member of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC), who was killed during a peaceful march for voting rights in Marion, Alabama. In response to Jackson’s death and the ongoing fight for voting rights, the march across the Edmund Pettus Bridge was organized for March 7, 1965.
Webb recalls being scared on the morning of the march, unsure of what she would witness. The events that transpired on Bloody Sunday forever changed her perspective. She witnessed the brutality and violence of the state troopers as they attacked the peaceful protesters with batons and tear gas. These harrowing experiences further fueled Webb’s determination to fight for civil rights.
Influence on Society:
Sheyann Webb’s activism as a child had a lasting impact on the civil rights movement. Her courage and commitment in the face of adversity inspired others to join the fight for racial equality. Her participation in the Selma to Montgomery march and her subsequent role as a co-author of the book Selma, Lord, Selma, helped shed light on the struggles of African Americans and the need for change.
Motivations and Inspirations:
Webb’s motivations were deeply rooted in the desire for equality and justice. She was inspired by the teachings of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and the belief in the power of peaceful protest.
Role in Women’s History:
Sheyann Webb’s role in women’s history is significant. As one of the youngest participants in the civil rights movement, she shattered stereotypes and demonstrated the pivotal role that young girls and women played in the fight for civil rights. Her determination and bravery continue to serve as an inspiration for future generations of women.
Awards:
– National Civil Rights Museum Freedom Award (1991)
– BET Humanitarian Award (1997)
– Presidential Citizens Medal (2001)
– Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC) Rosa L. Parks Leadership Award (2010)
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