1960

Dr. Gilbert Mason launched Operation Surf on April 17, 1960, to desegregate the beach. He was the only one to wade-in and was arrested immediately. Inspired by his example, 125 people showed up to wade in on April 24. When they took to the beaches at three locations along the 26-mile stretch, they were immediately attacked while police watched. Later, violence erupted in the town of Biloxi with eight Black and two White residents wounded by gunfire.

Pictured: A black and white photograph of a group of protesters on the beach. Dr. Gilbert Mason leads a line of protesters walking through the sand. Three officers stand to his right, and many more guard the end of the group after being arrested. 

Credit: AP/Jim Bourdier