My Rosa Parks Story: She sat down to stand up

Handmade by the sister of Mrs. Ivine Galarza

Growing up in the Bronx, I embodied many non-truths of New Yorkers, people of color and of accessibility. The true story of Rosa Parks is one example of the misconceptions I learned. I remember in 2005 when Rosa Parks died. I was so surprised. I said: "oh my gosh, she was still alive - all this time?!?" My education had left me with the impression that Rosa Parks was an old tired lady, who sat defiantly alone in the white section of the bus. I was under the impression that the support for this movement was birth by this great BIG BANG!

However, thank God the reverse is true. I read the story I realize she was only 42 years old! I then began to put time into context. (As I age, numbers take on a different significance, but I had thought she was much older).

It is important to realize that success born out of community organizing does not come from superheroes or come to fruition because of a Big Bang. Rosa Parks, also was an active member of the NAACP and a vibrant leader in her community. Rosa Parks act of civil disobedience was not spontaneous but premeditated. She showed that we each are accountable for the freedom we want to enjoy. She had already decided to stick things out for the long haul. In the process she lost her job, but at the end gained the respect of her enemies and won honor for her people.

As I reflect on conflicts on my job, working in a garden, living in this natural world - I realize change truly comes to those who are willing to work for it.