The Council of the District of Columbia has proclaimed February 4, 2025, as Transit Equity Day to honor the legacy of Rosa Parks and to reaffirm its commitment to ensuring an equitable, accessible, and reliable public transit system for all residents and visitors. This resolution highlights the historical significance of Rosa Parks' actions in the civil rights movement, particularly her refusal to give up her seat on a segregated bus, which catalyzed the fight for justice and equity in public transportation. It also acknowledges the ongoing challenges of unequal access to transit based on various factors such as race, income, and disability, despite the legal end of segregation in public transit.
The resolution emphasizes the importance of public transit as a vital infrastructure that supports economic, social, and environmental well-being in the District. It calls for enhancements to paratransit services for seniors and individuals with disabilities, a commitment to safety through the Vision Zero initiative, and the need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from transportation. The Council aims to collaborate with regional partners to build a modern transit system that addresses disparities in access and promotes sustainable transportation options, ultimately striving for a more just and resilient economy.