Created by graduate students in the History and American Studies departments at UMass Boston, this site showcases letters, photographs, legal documents, artifacts, and interviews that explore de facto segregation in Boston and the federally-mandated desegregation of Boston public schools. Students unearthed materials from various collections in separate Boston archives, selected a representative sampling, and presented them here, together, in new collaborative context.

Recently Added Items

Minutes from the Boston School Committee from June 28, 1974

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After Kathleen Sullivan's initial vote against the appeal, the Boston School Committee votes unanimously to appeal Judge Garrity's ruling. Sullivan…

William Hallissey "Billy" Sullivan Jr. with Governor Dukakis and Mayor Flynn

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Billy Sullivan, owner of the NFL Patriots, with Mayor Flynn and Governor Dukakis.

Minutes from the Boston School Committee from February 28, 1975

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Minutes from the Boston School Committee regarding the the motion to strike Robert Dentler's testimony from the desegregation hearings.

Minutes from the Boston School Committee from September 10, 1975

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Minutes from the Boston School Committee regarding Superintendent Marion Fahey's nominations to the School Department.

Minutes from the Boston School Committee from January 23, 1975

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Minutes from the Boston School Committee regarding the amended December 16, 1974 desegregation plan. This plan would be submitted to Garrity on…

John Marshall School in Dorchester.

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An image of the John Marshall School in Dorchester.