TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WTXL) - StarMetro will be offering free bus rides on all its fixed route buses on May 26 in honor of the 62nd anniversary of the Tallahassee Bus Boycott.
In 1956, two Florida A&M University (FAMU) students, Wilhelmina Jakes and Carrie Patterson, sat in the "whites only" section on a bus and refused to move.
They were arrested, which led to the Tallahassee Bus Boycott. Through nonviolent protest, boycotters in Tallahassee achieved an important victory in the struggle for civil rights.
StarMetro’s fare-free ride day will cap a series of community commemoration events honoring the anniversary of the historic event.
From May 23-26, community partners, including Florida State University and FAMU, will host exhibits, a documentary film viewing, panel discussions and a symbolic walk.
The walk will begin at noon on May 25, at FAMU’s Grand Ballroom.
Walkers will proceed to Under the Over at Lake Anita to hear messages from local leaders and distinguished guests.
The event will also feature live entertainment and refreshments. For more information about all the community events, visit www.neec-inc.org and click on Tallahassee Bus Boycott.
