Why do you all push us around?

I'd see the bus pass every day… But to me, that was a way of life; we had no choice but to accept what was the custom. The bus was among the first ways I realized there was a black world and a white world.

Racial pride and self-dignity were emphasized in my family and community.

When people made up their minds that they wanted to be free and took action, then there was a change.

When that white driver stepped back toward us, when he waved his hand and ordered us up and out of our seats, I felt a determination cover my body like a quilt on a winter night.

One person can change the world.

I want to be treated like a human being.