Honoring a Civil Rights Hero, Rosa Parks
Honoring a Civil Rights Hero, Rosa Parks
Monday, November 07, 2005
Washington, D.C. - Congresswoman Betty McCollum (MN-04) issued the following statement in commemorating the legacy of civil rights pioneer Rosa Parks, whose life was celebrated last week in Detroit. Ms. Parks' simple act on a city bus in Montgomery, Alabama, inspired the modern civil rights movement. She is also the first woman to lie in honor in the Capital Rotunda, sharing the tribute bestowed upon President Abraham Lincoln and President John F. Kennedy.
"Rosa Parks' simple yet powerful refusal to relinquish her seat on a segregated bus 50 years ago forever changed the course of American history. Her brave and courageous act of civil disobedience sparked the beginning of the Montgomery bus boycott and paved the way for the historic 1964 Civil Rights Act banning racial discrimination in public facilities. She is an inspiration to us all, and as a nation we are all thankful for her contributions. Her legacy helps to lead us in continuing the fight for social justice and refresh our vigor in the struggle for equality.
"Congress made the rare and appropriate decision to authorize the remains of Rosa Parks to lie in honor at the Capitol Rotunda. This honor commemorated more than the great civil rights movement that she helped to initiate. It also symbolized that our grateful nation recognizes the unique and extraordinary contribution Ms. Parks has made to America.
"We must remain committed to fighting the inequities that remain in our society. Championing fundamental rights for all - whether it is voting rights or a commitment to ending poverty in America - is the true legacy of Rosa Parks which will live on long after her passing."
McCollum is a co-sponsor of H.Res. 512, a resolution honoring the life of Rosa Parks and legislation to honor her with a commemorative postage stamp.
http://www.mccollum.house.gov/index.asp?Type=B_PR&SEC={64C7914D-5761-4B66-9535-75F8756F9261}&DE={D440E88E-B755-45AC-94AE-5F48488158C3}