Freedom Riders: Rebels with a Cause“If not us, then who? If not now, then when? Will there be a better day tomorrow or next year? Will it therefore be less dangerous? Will someone else's children have to risk their lives instead of us risking ours? -- John Lewis May 16, 1961, to other Nashville students thinking of joining the Freedom Rides John Lewis, a young black man born in the South, participated in the Freedom Rides. His statement rang true when Nashville students were faced with the decision to join the Freedom Rides in their fight for civil rights. This historic event paved the way for racial equality throughout the United States. The Freedom Rides were a vital part of history because they laid the foundation for racial equality throughout the South, whether in public restrooms, dining halls, or transportation. The Freedom Rides were a seminal event in the civil rights movement. The Freedom Rides of 1961 were a series of organized interstate bus trips to the South intended to challenge discriminatory Jim Crow laws. Although the Rides were a form of civil disobedience, they were technically peacefully protesting to uphold federal anti-discrimination laws. The event began when the Fellowship of Reconciliation founded the Congress of Racial Equality with the vision of a nonviolent, interracial civil rights organization in mind. Once CORE expanded to 50 members, it engaged in a discussion to end racial segregation. In the following years, CORE spread throughout the United States, breaking down discriminatory barriers. The Freedom Rides were inspired by the Journey of Reconciliation, an action undertaken by CORE members. Sixteen CORE members, black and white, defied a 1946 Supreme Court ruling by traveling together on interstate buses to the South. Unfortunately the Path of Reconciliation has not received the same