The End of Massive Resistance signifies “The Norfolk 17”, who were first permitted to enroll in public school in February 1959 after many trials and tribulations regarding the desegregation of schools. The memorial includes text of a poem, “Seventeen Ways” that was written by local Poet Tim Seibles with collaboration from the surviving members of “The Norfolk 17.”

VIA design contributed to the site design, survey coordination, and and site investigations at Flat Iron Park to support the artist team from RE:site, Shane Allbritton and Norman Lee, and fabricators who designed this impactful piece of public art. The project has recently been featured on the City of Norfolk’s Facebook Page and can be viewed here.

During this Black History Month, take some time to visit the memorial and reflect upon the triumph of social justice that “The Norfolk 17”, and many more have endured. The Ribbon Cutting Ceremony featuring some of the surviving members of “The Norfolk 17” can be seen here.