City of Huntsville pays tribute to civil rights pioneer Rosa Parks
Published on November 29, 2023
The City of Huntsville is honoring Rosa Parks, a pivotal figure in the Civil Rights Movement who refused to give up her seat and move to the “colored” section of a Montgomery bus.
On Friday, Dec. 1, which is observed as Rosa Parks Day, Huntsville Transit is offering free rides to the public on fixed-route buses. Also, a seat at the front of each fixed-route bus features a black cover and pink sash bearing Parks’ name, courtesy of the Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority. This is the sixth year Huntsville Transit has celebrated Rosa Parks Day.
“Rosa Parks’ defiance against segregation was a bold action that remains as inspiring today as it was then,” Mayor Battle said. “Her bravery was not only a defining moment for the Civil Rights Movement, but it also propelled our nation toward integration and inclusion for all.”
This year marks the 68th anniversary of Parks’ act of peaceful defiance, which resulted in her arrest and led to the Montgomery bus boycott, a seminal event in the Civil Rights Movement.
“In honoring the impact of Rosa Parks, whose courageous act sparked a pivotal moment in history, Huntsville Transit is committed to promoting inclusivity and accessibility in our community,” said Quisha Bryant, Director of Huntsville’s Parking and Public Transportation Department. “It’s a pleasure to not only honor her courageous act, but also provide an opportunity for people to try Transit for free and see what we’re about.”