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>> Barbara Smith Conrad: When we were children in northeast Texas, we dreamed a lot. So,
for me to be able to come to the University of Texas and to be able to be a part of the
School of music, that's what my dream was.
>> Narrator: But the dream for Barbara Smith Conrad was never easy. As a member of the
first integrated class at UT in 1957, she was a pioneer simply by her presence on the
40-acres, but after gaining a lead part in a school production, she created extreme backlash
and national attention. In the end, politics ruled the day and Barbara Smith Conrad was
removed from the play creating a critical decision for the 19-year-old, leave UT or
stay and fight.
>> Barbara Smith Conrad: I had no choice. I either had to stand up and show people that
I was capable or fall on my face; I didn't feel like doing that.
>> Narrator: When Hollywood actor Harry Belafonte heard she had been removed, he put forth a
tempting invitation, free education, anywhere, any price.
>> Barbara Smith Conrad: When Belafonte offered me that opportunity to go to any school of
my choice, I have to admit that was pretty heavy. I wanted to go to Paris, but there
was something in me that said, I'm not gonna get it like that.
>> Narrator: After graduating from UT in 1962, Barbara Smith Conrad went on to a storied
career as singer and performer and in 2012, more than a half century removed from discrimination
at her alma mater, Barbara Smith Conrad was honored as Fine Arts Commencement Speaker.
>> Barbara Smith Conrad: If you stand up and say what you really feel a lot of people can't
hear it. Sometimes, you can't hear it for yourself, but I knew that unless I could forgive
there was not hope for the rest of us.