The Detroit Pistons are joining forces with Rosa Parks’ estate to give free bus rides throughout Detroit on Feb. 4 and Feb. 7 in honor of Black History Month and the birthday Parks.
In addition, the Pistons gave 500 commemorative jackets to bus drivers and staff from the Detroit Department of Transportation. They also debuted a featuring Rosa Parks artwork, crafted by Desiree Kelly.
“Mrs. Parks’ heroism and activism helped initiate a civil rights movement that changed U.S. history and continues to this day,” Pistons chief business officer Mike Zavodsky said in a statement. “We are honored to kick off the beginning of this year’s Black History Month in collaboration with the Rosa Parks Estate. As we celebrate her life and place in our nation’s history, recent events demonstrate that significant work remains to advance equality and social justice for all. Our organization will continue finding ways to enhance economic opportunity, enrich youth education and support voting rights.”
The Pistons are also releasing a commemorative merchandise line in honor of Rosa Parks.