MPS students become the new "Freedom Riders" for civil rights

MILWAUKEE-On Friday, August 15th, African American leaders from various professions will gather for the annual golf outing called the Fellowship Open.

Over the past 14 years, the event has raised nearly $1 million for programs that create educational opportunities for children in the inner city.

One of the groups being honored this year is a program conceived by the non-profit \"Arts at Large\" which arranged for a select group of MPS students to travel south and retrace the steps of the original Freedom Riders of the 1960's.

The students then put on an exhibit that is on display at the Arts at Large studio at 5th and National in Walker's Point.

This is the 50th anniversary of the civil rights summer.

A documentary was also produced by the students.  In recognition of its incredible impact, the CEO of History makers, Juliana Richardson,  will meet with the young people Friday morning to talk about legendary figures during that time.

The Fellowship Open says with enormous cut backs in funding for the arts and other activities, Arts at Large has stepped in to fill the gap.

Each year, it serves 20 to 25 schools, reaching more than 12,000 students, teachers and families.

The Fellowship Open doesn't stop at raising money. It also has developed various mentoring programs so local children can meet with local leaders and learn how they reached success.

\" When we see all these tragedies on the news,\" Chairman John Daniels, Jr. told CBS 58 News. \"It really to me is that people haven't been educated to their other options.\"

Enjoy some of students profiles as reported on our morning and noon news.

There are more reports to come at 5 and 10.