From December 1-4, 2023, Montgomery will observe the 68th anniversary of the Montgomery Bus Boycott with an array of events, as announced by Mayor Steven L. Reed. These events will honor the city’s pivotal role in the Civil Rights Movement and its ongoing commitment to equality.
Mayor Reed emphasized Montgomery’s significance as the movement’s birthplace, stressing the city’s symbolism of progress and justice. “This commemoration,” he stated, “is a unique Montgomery experience, offering visitors a chance to connect with our nation’s pursuit of justice, truth, and reconciliation.”
Rosa Parks’ historic act nearly seven decades ago, when she refused to yield her seat on a Montgomery bus, set a transformative course for the nation. Her bravery, along with the courageous actions of many in Montgomery, sparked a relentless push for equality that continues to resonate today.
Event Highlights and Locations:
December 1: Rosa Parks Day Rally and Unity Walk* at Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church, followed by a procession to the Rosa Parks Library and Museum.
December 1: Rosa Parks Day Community Convocation* at Saint Paul AME Church with awards for leadership in civil rights and voter education, featuring speaker Dr. Tommie “TONEA” Stewart.
December 2-3: Inaugural Rosa Parks Junior Golf Tournament* at Lagoon Park.
December 2: 2nd Annual Rosa L. Parks Awards Gala* at Renaissance Montgomery Hotel & Spa, hosted by the Southern Youth Leadership Development Institute.
December 4: MYPC Mini Summit: From Here Forward* at The Lab on Dexter, focusing on Millennial and Gen Z voting power.
December 4: The Mass Meeting: Honoring The Past: Embracing Our Future* at Holt Street Baptist Church, featuring prominent figures and performances.
All events, unless specified, are open to the public and free of charge. Media coverage is encouraged, with opportunities for photos, videos, and interviews.
This commemorative series not only celebrates Montgomery’s historical significance but also underlines its ongoing role in shaping a more equitable future.
