Meryle Joy Reagon facts for kids

Meryle Joy Reagon is an American activist who worked for civil rights. She was born in 1942. In June 1961, she took part in a special journey called a Freedom Ride. This trip went from Montgomery, Alabama to Jackson, Mississippi. She was married to Frederick Leonard, who was also a Freedom Rider. Her sister, Cordell Reagon, was also involved in civil rights.

What Were the Freedom Rides?

The Freedom Rides were important events during the Civil rights movement in the United States. They happened in 1961. Brave people, both Black and white, rode buses together into the Southern states. They did this to challenge unfair laws. These laws kept Black and white people separate on buses and in bus stations. The Freedom Riders wanted to show that these laws were against the U.S. Constitution.

Meryle Reagon's Freedom Ride in 1961

Meryle Reagon was a student at Tennessee State University. She was 19 years old when she joined a Freedom Ride. This journey started in Montgomery, Alabama. It was headed for Jackson, Mississippi.

The Freedom Ride began early in the morning. It was led by Ruby Doris Smith, a leader from SNCC. SNCC stands for the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee. This group worked for civil rights. Meryle Reagon and Charles Butler were two students from Long Island on the ride. Three white male volunteers also joined them.

Later that day, Meryle Reagon and the others arrived in Jackson, Mississippi. They were at the Trailways bus station. There, they were taken into custody. They were then brought to Hinds County Jail. A few hours later, Meryle's brother, Cordell Reagon, also arrived at the same jail.