MCTS hosts 6th annual Rosa Parks tribute, scholarship contest

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- The Milwaukee County Transit System (MCTS) is honoring civil rights legend Rosa Parks this year with its entire fleet and through a scholarship in her name to recognize young leaders.

MTCS officials announced Tuesday, Nov. 30, that for the sixth year, MCTS will keep a seat open on every bus in the fleet from Wednesday, Dec. 1 through Friday, Dec. 3.

"Each reserved seat will include a red rose and a special placard that features Parks’ photo and a message about her courageous act," said MCTS.

Additionally, MCTS invites high school seniors throughout Milwaukee County who will attend a trade school, college, or university to submit a short essay inspired by Parks’ quote, “Each person must live their life as a model for others.”

Entries must be submitted by Jan. 7, 2022, to be considered.

Three winners will each receive $1,000 towards their higher education.

Officials say that the winners will be announced on Parks’ birthday, Feb. 4.

More information on the scholarship is available HERE.

Parks was arrested on Dec. 1, 1955, after refusing to give up her seat to a white man in Montgomery, Alabama. MCTS said, "Her small act of civil disobedience led to a landmark Supreme Court ruling that outlawed segregation on public transportation."

“Every day, Milwaukee County works to extend the path to achieving racial equity for all that Rosa Parks’ and others helped pave,” said Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley. “The recent implementation of the MCTS NEXT route redesign project is one example of how Milwaukee County delivers great public service that advances our mission of racial equity by enhancing the quality of life. I encourage our high school seniors to apply for the MCTS Rosa Parks Tribute Scholarship. It’s important to invest into our young leaders because one day they will guide our community to even greater heights. Rosa Parks was a wonderful example of how an individual can make a momentous impact.”