School markers honor Norfolk 17

NORFOLK, Va. - Monday, a marker was unveiled at Norfolk's Maury High School honoring the Norfolk 17, who 50 years ago became the first African American students integrated into the city's public schools.

Their admittance ended the campaign of Massive Resistance, an initiative by the government to close Norfolk's public schools rather than see them integrated.

Louis Cousins was one of the Norfolk 17, and was back at his Alma Mater for the ceremony.

In describing the difference Monday compared to the first time he entered Maury High School in 1959, Cousins told WAVY.com is was "quite different. It's a better feeling, believe me, than it was the first time I came here. There is no hostility on the street, there are no adults and students sitting along the wall calling me all types of names. And you guys' cameras are still here, but for a different reason, and that feels good."

Similar markers were unveiled at Norview and Granby High Schools, as well as Norview, Northside and Blair Middle Schools.

A marker was also unveiled at First Baptist Church on Bute Street. The Norfolk church was a temporary school for the Norfolk 17 during the time when the public schools were closed.

Virginia Governor Tim Kaine also attended a luncheon in Norfolk Monday to honor the Norfolk 17 and their place in Virginia Civil Rights history.