Thurman P. Woodfork

ROSA PARKS

Rosa Parks, 1913 - 2005Rosa Parks, whose steadfast refusal to give up her bus seat to a white man sparked a revolution against bigotry, has gone on to where prejudice and injustice has no foothold. She’s found true equality at last. Rosa Parks died peacefully of natural causes on 24 October 2005 at age 92.

Where she now abides, ‘Inalienable Rights’ aren’t just words promised to some on paper, and ‘Equal Justice Under Law’ isn’t merely a phrase chiseled on a court’s imposing façade. She leaves a monumental legacy.

For years, her simple, quiet courage and refusal to be further bullied stood as a beacon to those who honestly believe in true equality. She acted with dignity and controlled defiance.

She did not foment a riot. She did not engage in heated rhetoric. She did not torch a neighborhood. Her singular act of reserved, resolute courage ignited a spirit that changed a nation and marked the beginning of the end of overt institutionalized racial discrimination in America.

John Wayne became an American icon and symbol of courage by portraying stalwarts in movies. Rosa Parks was not role-playing and not merely a symbol; she was the genuine article – a true American Hero. Rosa Parks – who just wanted to be free and wished the same for everyone else – may she rest in peace.

“I am leaving this legacy to all of you… to bring peace, justice, equality, love and a fulfillment of what our lives should be. Without vision, the people will perish, and without courage and inspiration, dreams will die — the dream of freedom and peace.” – Rosa Parks, 1913 – 2005