While riding the M Transit today is an easy, accessible process for all, a major event occurred in the 1950’s to make that ease and accessibility possible. The public transportation system in Montgomery, Alabama has significant historical importance, as it was the vehicle utilized in the first large scale U.S. demonstration against segregation, according to History.com.

This major demonstration is known worldwide as the Montgomery Bus Boycott. The Montgomery Bus Boycott, which took place from December 5, 1955, to December 21, 1956, began the modern Civil Rights movement. It also established several community members, such as Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Rosa Parks, and Claudette Colvin, as civil rights leaders and influencers who would leave a legacy that is still relevant today.

For 381 days, nearly 40,000 African Americans refused to use the public transit system in Montgomery. This was more than 70% of the city’s bus riders according to the National Park Service. This boycott had such a significant impact that it received attention at the national level within the justice system. The U.S. Supreme Court ultimately required Montgomery to integrate its bus system, allowing riders to sit wherever they pleased.

It is because of this monumental initiative that the M Transit system efficiently functions as Montgomery’s main public transit system today. Nearly 70 years after the Montgomery Bus Boycott, the M Transit has come a long way in making advancements toward full integration, accessibility, and inclusion for all users.

Features such as the TransLoc Rider App, paratransit services, and other service initiatives help facilitate the most pleasant travel experience for riders. Take advantage of all the M Transit has to offer today!