Students of Central Elementary listened with interest about the major role children played during the Civil Rights Movement by someone who experienced it alongside Martin Luther King, Jr.

Sheyann Webb-Christburg, author of the book “Selma, Lord, Selma,” spoke with students on Feb. 25 at Central Elementary about traits she developed during her childhood and the guidance she received during the civil rights years.

Character, respect and achieving academic excellence were among the important life lessons during the speech to the students.

Christburg said that children are not too young to think about what will impact their lives, how to make a difference in them and how to make a difference in the lives of others.

Her speech portrayed the importance of literacy and how history affects the future of individuals to succeed in life.

“There is no better way to become familiar with history than to read, ask questions and become exposed to museums and other places whom give that knowledge,” said Christburg.

According to the author, Dr. King and Jonathan Daniels had a profound impact on her life while growing up in the midst of the civil rights era which gave her important attributes she could share with others.

Christburg said the most substantial attribute she obtained was the development of her character.

“It was not just realizing the change it had on me, but knowing the importance gave me a true sense of great determination to work hard in spite of the hard work,” Christburg said.

Christburg stressed the importance of children knowing and acknowledging that they can be what they want to be, but they must work hard to achieve their goals.