TAKING A SEAT

On Tuesday's we can attend AMC movie theatres for half price. A discounted ticket is offered to entice movie goers, however in the 1940's in Canada a cheaper ticket was offered to African American movie goers to sit in the balcony.

When Viola Desmond's car broke down on her way to a meeting she decided to see a movie as a way to pass the time. Unfortunately after purchasing her ticket and finding a comfortable seat on the floor, she was asked to leave as she was sitting in the "white" only section. She explained that she could pay the difference in the ticket price but due to segregation, the Roseland Theatre would not let her. Knowing that this treatment was wrong, she refused and went to jail. She paid a fine and was released, but community groups supported her and appealed. Though it took until the late 1950's to make segregation against the law, the Nova Scotia resident, Viola Desmond inspired many people to stand up for their rights. She started a black beauty school and her efforts helped to spark the civil rights movement in Canada. In 2018, she was honored on the $10 bill.

Learn more by reading the book, Viola Desmond Won't Be Budged!