Set against true events that occurred in 1974 when bussing tore Boston apart along racial lines and sparked massive protests and violence - issues with which the world still struggles. Boston Irish cop Bill Coughlin contends with fierce social pressure from a neighbourhood crime boss and rampant bigotry within the police force after being assigned to protect black students bussed into an all-white South Boston High School during court-ordered integration. In the midst of this tension, 18-year-old black student Wendy, and her father Lamont, both display immense bravery and moral fortitude. Kate, Bill's 17-year-old daughter, is confronted by her own racism, as all three stories collide during that fateful first day of school.