Rosa Parks Day is celebrated in some parts of the country to honor the civil rights activist who became a symbol of resistance against racial segregation.
When is Rosa Parks Day? Is it a federal holiday?
Rosa Parks was a prominent African American civil rights activist best known for her pivotal role in the Montgomery Bus Boycott, a significant event in the US civil rights movement.
Her most notable act of defiance took place on Dec. 1, 1955, when, after a long day of work, Parks refused to give up her seat to a white man on a bus in Montgomery, Alabama. At that time, racially segregated seating was the norm, and African Americans were required to yield their seats to white passengers.
Parks’ refusal to comply with the segregation laws led to her arrest, sparking the Montgomery Bus Boycott. This movement, organized by leaders such as Martin Luther King Jr., lasted for 381 days, during which African Americans in Montgomery refused to go on the city’s buses to protest racial segregation.
The boycott ultimately led to a Supreme Court ruling that segregation on public buses was unconstitutional. This legal victory became a catalyst for broader efforts to challenge segregation and discrimination across the United States.
When Is Rosa Parks Day? Is it a federal holiday?
Various states and localities honor the activist by celebrating Rosa Parks Day, which is not a federal holiday, but rather a commemorative day observed on different dates depending on the location.
Most states celebrate the holiday every year on February 4, which is her birthday. Another date for observing Rosa Parks Day is December 1, which marks the anniversary of the day when she refused to give up her seat.
If you are interested in observing Rosa Parks Day in a specific location, you can check with local government offices, schools, or community organizations to find out if and when events or activities are planned to honor the civil rights icon.
Parks remained active in civil rights causes, working alongside leaders and participating in various campaigns for racial equality. She received many awards for her contributions to the civil rights movement, and her legacy continues to inspire generations of people committed to social justice and equality.
Related stories
Get your game on! Whether you’re into NFL touchdowns, NBA buzzer-beaters, world-class soccer goals, or MLB home runs, our app has it all.
Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more – plus, stay updated on the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.