Label
RIA: Linnie Liggins Willis
McPherson
Title
Honoring Linnie Liggins Willis for her social justice activism and the delayed conferral of her degree from the University of Mississippi
Summary
WHEREAS, Linnie Liggins Willis, completed all coursework and requirements for her degree from the University of Mississippi in 1970; and
WHEREAS, Linnie and 88 other students engaged in a peaceful protest at the university in 1970 which resulted in the expulsion of 8 students (The Ole Miss 8). Despite fulfilling the academic requirements for graduation, Linnie, as one of the 8, was denied the opportunity to receive her diploma and participate in the commencement ceremony; and
WHEREAS, for nearly five decades, Linnie carried the distinction of having earned her degree while awaiting the formal recognition and diploma that should have accompanied that accomplishment; and
WHEREAS, in 2020, the University of Mississippi acknowledged this history, issued an apology to Linnie and her classmates, and presented her with the diploma formally conferring the degree she had earned in 1970; and
WHEREAS, receiving that diploma nearly 50 years after completing her academic requirements represents not only the fulfillment of a personal milestone, but also a powerful testament to Linnie’s perseverance, determination, dignity, and commitment to her education; and
WHEREAS, her accomplishment reminds us that circumstances may delay recognition, but they cannot erase achievement, perseverance, or the lasting value of an education earned through hard work and dedication; and
WHEREAS, it is fitting and proper that we recognize Linnie for her remarkable achievement and celebrate the long-overdue acknowledgment of the degree she earned in 1970.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TOLEDO:
SECTION 1. we proudly recognize and honor Linnie Liggins Willis for completing the requirements for her degree from the University of Mississippi in 1970 and for the perseverance she demonstrated throughout the decades that followed.
SECTION 2. and that Toledo City Council celebrate Linnie’s receipt of her diploma in 2020 as a meaningful moment of recognition-one that honors her academic achievement, her resilience, and her unwavering belief in the importance of education.
Adopted: _________________: yeas ______, nays ______.
Attest: _________________________ __________________________________
Clerk of Council President of Council
Approved: ______________________ _________________________________
Mayor
I hereby certify that the above is a true and correct copy of a Resolution adopted by.
Council ________________________
Attest: _________________________
Clerk of Council