Up in Arms

Not all changes have been embraced with open arms. Protesters picketed outside Judge James McMillan's home following his historical decision in Swann vs. The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Board of Education, which led to the integration of Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools. Judge McMillan endured death threats, as well as protesters because he believed in the law's ability to protect the rights of all citizens. Eventually the concept of desegregation became accepted within the community. Today, Judge McMillan, who died in 1995, is remembered for his legacy of courage and compassion which survived the protests.