“Considering that a passenger on a public bus was the catalyst for a civil rights movement that literally swept the world, it is only fitting that AC Transit—a public bus agency—be a part of this historic educational project.”
That’s AC Transit Interim General Manager Mary King introducing the Freedom Bus. Honoring the 55th anniversary of Rosa Park’s historic ride, AC Transit, the Alameda County Office of Education, West Contra Costa Unified School District, and Art IS Education created the Freedom Bus Project.
Students submitted social-justice themed artwork, and the four winning entries will be displayed in 200 buses throughout the AC Transit fleet. This “mobile art exhibit” will run through the month of April.
One special bus has been “wrapped” by Titan Worldwide with scenes depicting the Montgomery Bus Boycott. The bus will be unveiled at a special launch on March 25th at the Oakland School for the Arts before its three school tour.
After the festivities, the Freedom Bus will join the regular AC Transit service. Look for this unique display of civil rights history and arts education on a route near you.
