Posted on February, 3 2023

Graphic of Rosa Parks photo that reads making movesHappy birthday, Rosa Parks! 

About Rosa Parks

Rosa Parks, a civil rights activist, was born on this day in 1913 in Tuskegee, Alabama. She was secretary of the Montgomery chapter of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) and advocated for racial justice and equality.

Standing up by staying seated

On December 1, 1955, Rosa Parks refused to give up her seat on a public bus for a white man. She was inspired by a recent workshop discussing non-violent tactics and strategies for overcoming racial discrimination as well as other similiar community experiences. Mrs. Parks knew she was within her right to keep the seat. According to bus agency's policies, and the recent Supreme Court decision made on "Brown Vs. The Board of Education," she had every right to stay seated.

Unfortnately, because of "Jim Crow" era state laws, she was quickly arrested. Rosa Parks' unjust arrest sparked political action that led to the Montgomery Bus Boycott, a critical part of the Civil Rights Movement.

Celebrating Rosa's courage

February 4th is now known as Rosa Parks Day. DART commemorates her action, to stand up for equality and injustice, by dedicating a seat on every bus fixed route bus in honor of Mrs. Parks. DART proudly salutes Mrs. Parks and reaffirms its commitment to providing equitable public transportation for Greater Des Moines.

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