Freedom Rides 50th Anniversary TV and Events

This year is a year with two significant commemorations.  As 09/11 turns 10, the Freedom Rides of 1961 turns 50.  Three members of the Atlas family were integral parts of the Freedom Rides, and two of them have lived to see this momentous anniversary.  In lieu of the anniversary, a number of programs and events are being aired and held.

Jean Denton Thompson's mugshot.
Arrested May 24, 1961 in Jackson, MS
Source:  MSDAH

Shirley Thompson's mugshot.
Arrested June 6, 1961 in Jackson, MS
Source: MSDAH

Upcoming Events With Family Members
Oprah Winfrey Show - Freedom Rides 50th Anniversary
Taping:  Thursday, April 28, 2011
Air Date:  Wednesday, May 4, 2011
Note:  Family members, including Jean Denton Thompson and Alice Thompson, will be in attendance for the taping. 
Website: http://www.oprah.com/oprah_show.html


Freedom Riders 50th Anniversary Conference and Reunion
Dates:  April 28 - May 2, 2011
Location:  Chicago, IL
Note:  Family members will be in attendance for this event.  Jean Denton Thompson will be a panelist during the Faith and Family session moderated by Rev. CT Vivian.
Website:  http://freedomriders50th.com/

Freedom Riders (Documentary)Air Date:  May 16, 2011
Channel:  PBS
Website:  http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/americanexperience/freedomriders/

Jet Magazine, December 14, 1961

Recent News Coverage With Family Members
Two Freedom Riders from New Orleans Honored
April 16, 2011
Times Picayune Staff, New Orleans Times Picayune

Screenings of PBS Freedom Riders Documentary
April 7-8, 2011
Western Massachusetts
Press Release


Conversations with Isaac BenEzra
March 22, 2011
Amherst (MA) Media
Interview with Jean Denton Thompson
Click the link above or view the video below

Radio Chronicles - The Story of a Freedom Rider - Jean Denton Thompson
March 6, 2011
KPFA, Berkeley, CA