Exploration 7: Ain't Scared of Your Jails

I learned a lot from this documentary because it is portrayed from the inside. It showed us what was really happening with the students, and how they felt and how they reacted. I've seen numerous examples of exterior portrayal, but none from the inside, and that's why I really liked this documentary. I learned about the bravery and cruel treatment of the students from everyone that disagreed with them, including the government. The world was against these students. They showed an immense amount of valor and courage to stand up for what is right on behalf of millions of African-American citizens. They took the stand, they took action, and they forced the change that was over 200 years coming. At such a young age, these students were ready to do what needed to be done, no matter what it took. On being arrested, John Lewis said "Growing up in the rural South, it was not the thing to do, not to go to jail. It was bringing shame and disgrace on the family. But for me, I tell you, it was like being involved in a holy crusade. It became a badge of honor." These students took pride in what they were doing. They were not afraid of going to jail or taking a beating, as long as they proved a point. What these students did can be translated to the modern day. Non-violent protest has proved to be the most effective way of initiating change today. Discipline and heart will prevail through most hard-ships.

Non-violent protests, like the ones exhibited by the students, are the most powerful way to protest. These students were kicked, punched, bruised and beaten, but refused to physically fight back. This was very smart on their part because if they were to fight back, it would give the opposing force a "reason" to inflict larger punishment. They would be put in jail for a longer period of time, they would be beaten even harder than they were before, and they would cause more people to be against them. People on the fence about segregation would realize that these people are peaceful and innocent, but yet are still receiving unjust punishment for just about everything they do. The police wouldn't even protect these kids, so how would you know if they would protect you in a situation of danger? It opened peoples eyes to the horrid treatment of these peaceful students. The government even promised to protect them, and they broke their promise. When the students left Montgomery, there was plenty of protection, but 40 miles from Montgomery, all of the protection disappeared, and the bus that held the freedom riders was attacked at a gas station that was supposed to be protected. When the students arrived at the gas station, they were greeted by the mob, the scene described by John Lewis: "... about 40 miles or less from the city of Montgomery, all sign of protection disappeared. There was no plane, no patrol car, and when we arrived at the bus station, it was just like eerie, just a strange feeling. It was so quiet, so peaceful, nothing." This is truly sad to see that the government would make a promise to protect them, and then completely lie and do the opposite. These students were not doing what the were doing to cause harm, they just wanted to change the treatment of black Americans, something that should have never been a problem in the first place.