I just read sad news about the passing of Mildred Loving. For those unfamiliar with her name, she and her husband Richard ( d. 1975) were the Lovings in "Loving v. Virginia", the case decided by the Supreme Court in 1967 that struck down laws banning interracial marriages in 17 states. These were unassuming people who wanted what any other couple in love wants; to be married. I was a toddler when their landmark case was decided and at that young age completely oblivious to how grateful I would one day be to them. That day was my wedding day, when like Mildred, I married the man I loved with all my heart. Also like Mildred, I was a black woman marrying a white man. Unlike Mildred, it didn't take a Supreme Court decision for our marriage to be valid.
Mildred Loving, matriarch of interracial marriage, dies
Richard and Mildred were married in Washington DC in 1958 and arrested for miscegenation when they returned to their home state of Virginia. Imagine having to plead guilty to a crime that included language such as against the peace and dignity of the Commonwealth for marrying the person you love? I simply can't, and because of them don't have to, but am eternally grateful for their courage. Imagine having to petition the courts, all the way up to the Supreme Court for the exercise of your 14th Amendment Rights. Imagine having something so natural as your love for another person be classified like a terrorist threat. Against the peace and dignity of the Commonwealth my ass.
These people are heroes to me. Not very educated, ordinary people, who simply wanted to make a family. Can you imagine the courage that it took for them do this with the odds so stacked against them? People know, and rightly celebrate the stories of Rosa Parks, James Meredith, the Little Rock Nine, and so many others, but maybe not as much about the Lovings. I can't imagine what my life would be like had it not been for their courage. Maybe it would be the same but I don't know that, and because of them, I don't have to wonder.
I just wanted to somehow publicly acknowledge the passing of an American heroine and this seemed like the place to do that. Sorry if it's self indulgent. Thanks Mildred and Richard, and may you now be joined together in spirit knowing that every June 12, the anniversary of the SC decision, there are couples who honor your memories.
I also can't help but wonder what Mildred thought about the prospect of a bi-racial man who likely reminded her of her own sons, possibly becoming President of the same country that once denied her right to marry? I can't help but think that she was beaming at the possibility. Rest now, and thank you.