Salesianum School Celebrates Brotherhood Day
Honoring the 74th Anniversary of Being the First Integrated High School in Delaware
Fr. Chris Beretta, OSFS, Principal of Salesianum School
November 14, 2024, marked the 74th anniversary of one of the most significant milestones in the history of Salesianum School and the state of Delaware. On November 14, 1950, five Black students—Thomas and Alfred Connell, James Owens, Fred Smith, and Willie Jones—courageously stepped through the doors of Salesianum's original campus at 8th and West Streets, making it the first integrated high school in Delaware. This groundbreaking moment, which challenged the norms of a segregated society, is commemorated annually as Brotherhood Day. The Quintus House at Salesianum is named in honor of these trailblazers, known affectionately as the "Quintus Five" or the "First Five."
As part of the commemoration, students participated in a candle-lighting ceremony symbolizing the key stages of this historic journey. The first candle was lit in remembrance of the initial efforts of Father Lawless to desegregate Salesianum in 1947, a bold move that faced resistance from both within and outside the school community. Although obstacles prevented him from moving forward, he did not abandon his vision. The second candle was lit to remember the determination of Father Lawless that led to the successful integration of the five students in 1950, when they quietly entered the school and were guided by him to their first classes, setting an example of leadership and resolve. No one but Fr. Lawless knew they were coming. When they arrived at school, he walked them to their first-period classes. Willie Jones took his seat behind Felix Rapposelli, who turned around and said, “If anyone gives you trouble, let me know.” But no trouble came. The students, Black and White, turned a moment of uncertainty into an ordinary day of school. Fr. Lawless later remarked, “I see nothing to apologize for, other than the fact that it wasn’t done years ago.”
The third candle celebrated Salesianum's role as a catalyst for change in Delaware, challenging racial segregation and paving the way for a more inclusive society. The integration of Salesianum created a ripple effect that inspired future decisions, including Vice-Chancellor Collins Seitz's landmark legal ruling desegregating Delaware public schools—a ruling that would later contribute to the U.S. Supreme Court's 1954 Brown v. Board of Education decision. The fourth candle recognized the profound impact of the integration on the Salesianum community, fostering a stronger sense of brotherhood and unity among students of all backgrounds. The final candle invited reflection on the present and future of our brotherhood. As students gathered, they were reminded that this community is more than just a place—it is built daily by the people within it. "To Live Jesus means seeking the presence of God in each person we meet," emphasized today's speakers, connecting the legacy of the Quintus Five to the school's theme for this year, "Brothers Unite."
Senior Owen Hall shared his journey of embracing the brotherhood. During his reflection, he said, “What I’ve come to understand is that we have a responsibility to one another, to embody the brotherhood for everyone, especially those who feel isolated or excluded. One way I have tried to be that brother is through the Peer Counseling program. As a Peer Counselor, I’ve listened to students who feel like outsiders — freshmen, transfers, and those who just don’t fit in. They don’t need therapy or special treatment; they simply need someone to talk to, a friend, a brother.”
Fr. Chris Beretta, OSFS, then blessed the eleven Peer Counselors, who are available to support their brothers in need. Thank you for your service, Pher Arriviello '26, Trevor Bengal '25, Jaiden Blieler '25, Jack Cunningham '26, Andrew Doyle '25, Ian Fahnoe '25, Erick Flores '26, Owen Hall '25, Garrett Lewis '25, Pablo Mezquita-Media '26, and Steven Zeitler '25. The ceremony concluded as students and faculty reaffirmed their commitment to carrying forward the spirit of the Quintus Five, proving that the brotherhood, as it was in 1950 and as it is today, is a living testament to the belief that every student belongs.
Candle-lighting ceremony
Salesianum School Senior Owen Hall
Fr. Chris Beretta, OSFS, blessing the eleven Peer Counselors