A resolution commemorating the 50th anniversary of the landmark Supreme Court decision in Brown v. Board of Education.

WHEREAS, on May 17, 1954, the United States Supreme Court decided the case of Brown v. Board of Education; and

WHEREAS, the landmark decision of Brown v. Board of Education held that the segregation of schools on the basis of race violates the Equal Protection Clause of the 14th Amendment to the United States Constitution; and

WHEREAS, the Brown v. Board of Education decision rejected the “separate but equal” doctrine that had prevailed in much of the United States and held that segregation on the basis of race deprives minority children of equal education opportunities; and

WHEREAS, the Brown v. Board of Education decision was the turning point in the desegregation of public schools, and the beginning to an equality among all races; and

WHEREAS, the year 2004 marks the 50th anniversary of the Supreme Court’s decision in Brown v. Board of Education; and

WHEREAS, it is fitting and proper that the Metropolitan Council commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Brown v. Board of Education decision.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE METROPOLITAN GOVERNMENT OF NASHVILLE AND DAVIDSON COUNTY:

Section 1. That the Metropolitan County Council hereby goes on record as commemorating the 50th anniversary of the landmark Supreme Court decision in Brown v. Board of Education.

Section 2. This resolution shall take effect from and after its adoption, the welfare of The Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County requiring it.