Royals Reflect on Lessons from Civil Rights Foot Soldier Charles Mauldin

In recognition of the anniversary of the Voting Rights Act of 1965, Black Rock Middle School is reflecting on a meaningful conversation eighth-grade students had this past June with Civil Rights foot soldier Charles Mauldin.

Mr. Mauldin was a teenager when he began taking a stand against racial injustice in Selma, Alabama. On March 7, 1965—now remembered as “Bloody Sunday”—he marched sixth in line among a group that included John Lewis and others advocating for equal voting rights.

Signed into law on August 6, 1965, the Voting Rights Act outlawed discriminatory voting practices and strengthened federal protections for voting rights. Among its key provisions, the law prohibited literacy tests and provided for federal oversight in certain jurisdictions with a history of voting discrimination.

During the virtual visit, Mr. Mauldin spoke with students about living under Jim Crow segregation and the leadership of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., John Lewis and others who worked for change and equality during a pivotal period in United States history.

Students asked thoughtful questions about his experiences, including how young people can make a difference today, which civil rights leaders inspired him most and how he overcame fear while participating in the movement. Mr. Mauldin explained that although he was frightened, he knew he had to take a stand—and he encouraged today’s young people to do the same when they encounter injustice.

The conversation was arranged by BRMS teacher Dr. Rachel Nichols, who knows Mr. Mauldin through her involvement as a Frontline Educator with the Institute for Common Power. The organization works to advance voting justice, dismantle structural racism and foster a more inclusive democracy through education.