HUNTSVILLE — To commemorate the “Catalyst of Change,” the city of Huntsville will celebrate Rosa Parks Day today, marking the 70th anniversary of her historic refusal to surrender her seat on a Montgomery bus.
In recognition of her legacy, Huntsville Transit will offer free bus rides on all fixed-route (Orbit) and paratransit (Access) buses from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. today.
“On December 1, 1955, Rosa Parks made a simple decision: ‘Not today’,” Mayor Tommy Battle said. “That moment became a spark that traveled far beyond a bus route and became a catalyst for change.”
Parks’ quiet act of courage became a defining moment in the Civil Rights Movement and reshaped the role of public transportation in advancing fairness and access for all.
Parking and Public Transportation Director Quisha Bryant said the free bus rides reflect Huntsville Transit’s ongoing commitment to accessible, community-centered mobility.
“Reliable transit is essential to equitable opportunity,” Bryant said. “We have an incredible team of Huntsville Transit drivers, dispatchers, mechanics and staff who show up every day with a smile and a commitment to service.
Their work is often quiet, but it is the backbone of mobility in our city.”
Huntsville Transit’s fixed-route schedule is available here.
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