Courtesy photo Fisher High School |
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excluded from clubs and organizations . When a senior event came up , Black students boycotted in order to be used as ushers and access other areas of senior involvement . Vicky Langley was the first Black cheerleader .
Sadly , the building and years worth of hard work were thrown out making student records very difficult to find and often incomplete .
Bishop Heights was the first fully integrated school “ across the tracks ,” which sent white parents into a tizzy worrying about walkers . Bus transportation was not available across the tracks , meaning children had to cross the tracks to get to school , but was later approved .
In spite of the divided opinions within the community , the staff was completely behind Omega Dunnington , the first Black principal of an integrated school , both students and faculty . The campus received
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several recognitions , was noted for achievements and there was no crime , vandalism or kids hurt .
“ As a community we are above what people perceive us to be ,” was the message being conveyed , according to West .
Tommy Bowmen was the first graduate of an integrated campus , he was amazing at basketball and received a scholarship from Baylor .
West hopes to preserve the memory of this time in history with this monument and is extremely proud of the graduates of Fisher High School who went on to paths of success . A place to go and have fond memories of friends and reflect on a different time is a valuable community asset .
These were the way makers and those who set an example in the north Athens community . It is important for this and future generations to remember these parts of history and the teachings of Prof . Fisher . Although it is not a proud
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time from the past , the lesson is vital to help this and future generations avoid repeating past mistakes .
“ Until we can love one another and can understand our differences , we cannot inherit the kingdom .” West said .
This is a lesson we are still trying to learn today . Information is still very limited for the years 1920-
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Courtesy photo Richard Columbus Fisher
23 , 25 , 26 , 28 , 29 , and 1930 . Building Athens Together has been the driving force behind this monument and meets monthly . If you have information concerning the schools or would like more information on BAT , please contact Larry West at 430-502-0914 or eugene4591 @ icloud . com .
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