Rosa Parks Receives Presidential Medal of Freedom

Rosa Parks, known as the "Mother of the Modern Day Civil Rights Movement," was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honor in the United States. This recognition was a testament to her pivotal role in the fight against racial segregation and her enduring legacy in American history. Parks gained national attention when she refused to give up her bus seat to a white passenger in Montgomery, Alabama, an act of defiance that sparked the Montgomery Bus Boycott and became a catalyst for the broader civil rights movement. Her actions not only challenged the status quo but also inspired countless individuals to advocate for equality and justice. The Presidential Medal of Freedom was awarded by President Bill Clinton, who acknowledged Parks' significant contributions during his State of the Union address. He highlighted her courage and the impact of her actions on the civil rights landscape in the United States. Parks' recognition by Time magazine as one of the 20 most influential figures of the 20th century further underscores her importance in shaping modern American society. The medal symbolizes not only her personal achievements but also the collective struggle for civil rights, making her a lasting icon in the ongoing pursuit of equality.