Before Martin Luther King, Jr., before Rosa Parks, before the sit-ins, the riots and the marches, there was Little Rock.

Forty years ago, black-and-white footage captured the courage and dignity of nine students who would integrate Central High School in Little Rock, Ark., and make history.

Our nation was one of ignorance and hatred in 1957.

It was that year when the first black students, known as the Little Rock Nine, walked through the doors of Central High School as they were accompanied by federal troops sent in by President Dwight D. Eisenhower.

Following them was an entourage of white students who were verbally hounding the new arrivals.

The integration of the Little Rock Nine was commemorated by President Clinton this week.

However, it brings forth a question that remains important 40 years later: How far have we really come?

Today, Central High School is 60 percent black.

Today, Iowa State University has a larger minority enrollment that in did in 1957.

Today, racism isn’t as prominent as it was in 1957.

Today, though, racism has more opportunity to look at you in disguise.

Throughout our lives, we all are faced with forms of discrimination — most of which we probably are not even aware.

Regardless of our race, sex, ethnic background and various orientations, we live in a time now that is hidden with discriminatory actions.

So, how far have we come?

The Little Rock Nine should strike a chord in everyone who saw what they did.

Today, people should continue striking chords by displays of courage and dignity.

It is, after all, a respectful way to strip the disguises of hate.