The Council of the District of Columbia has proclaimed February 4, 2025, as Transit Equity Day, honoring the legacy of Rosa Parks and reaffirming its commitment to an equitable, accessible, and reliable public transit system. This resolution highlights the historical significance of Parks' refusal to give up her bus seat, which catalyzed the Civil Rights Movement and emphasized the ongoing struggle for justice and equity in public transportation. It acknowledges the contributions of other key figures, such as Claudette Colvin and Mary Louise Smith, and recognizes that despite the legal end of segregation in public transit, disparities based on race, gender, income, and disability continue to exist.
The resolution underscores the importance of public transit as a vital infrastructure for economic, social, and environmental well-being, particularly for low-income communities. It calls for enhanced paratransit services for seniors and individuals with disabilities, a commitment to safety through the Vision Zero initiative, and efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from transportation. The Council aims to collaborate with regional partners to modernize the transit system, ensuring that all residents have equitable access to transportation options while addressing barriers that hinder access to public transit.