Remembering Rosa Parks

REMEMBERING ROSA PARKS -- (House of Representatives - October 26, 2005)

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Mr. NEAL of Massachusetts. Mr. Speaker, I am saddened by the death of Rosa Parks, and I rise today to pay tribute to this exemplary woman who dynamically changed the 20th Century.

Rosa Parks became a major catalyst for racial reform in December 1955 when she refused to give up her seat to a white man on a public bus in Montgomery, Alabama, defying the racial standards of that time. As a result, she was arrested and fined for violating a city ordinance. But this arrest began a bus boycott movement that ended legal segregation in America, and made Ms. Parks an inspiration to those who longed for freedom for everyone. Although the boycott was a success, Rosa Parks later lost her job. But, despite of this mistreatment she still held on to what she believed in ``freedom and equality.''

Ms. Parks' valor, on that particular day, helped to make Americans aware of the history of the civil rights struggle. She was truly an example of courage, determination and inspiration to all Americans and for her courageous deed, Rosa Parks was hailed ``the mother of the civil rights movement.'' Therefore, on June 15, 1999, we in Congress honored Ms. Parks' bravery by awarding her the Congressional Gold Medal in an historic ceremony at the Capitol Rotunda.

It was truly an honor to meet such an outstanding woman, and I will never forget her action and dedication that led to the end of segregation. Her heroism inspired the freedom and equality that African Americans so rightly deserve.

Mr. Speaker, I hope that Rosa Parks' legacy will be carried forward by future generations so that African Americans will continue to experience equality amongst all mankind.

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