Charles Person, Youngest Freedom Rider, Dies at 82

Charles Person, the youngest member of the original Freedom Riders, passed away at the age of 82 at his home in Fayetteville, Georgia. He was a key figure in the 1961 civil rights movement, participating in a courageous bus journey to challenge segregation in the South despite violent opposition from groups like the Ku Klux Klan. During the Freedom Rides, Person and his fellow activists faced brutal attacks, including a notorious incident in Birmingham where they were beaten by a mob while police stood by. Following his activism, he remained dedicated to civil rights, contributing to initiatives like the Freedom Riders National Monument and the Freedom Riders Training Institute. Person's legacy is remembered for his courage, commitment to nonviolence, and impact on the civil rights movement, inspiring future generations of activists. His passing is a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made during the civil rights era and the ongoing struggle for equality.