(Washington, DC)— Congresswoman Diane E. Watson released the following statement today on the death of Rosa Parks:

“Rosa Park’s life is a milestone in American history.  Her simple defiance of refusing to relinquish her seat 50 years ago on a Montgomery, Alabama bus launched the Civil Rights Movement that transformed racial relations in the United States.  Without Rosa Parks there may not have been a Martin Luther King or Civil Rights Movement.   Her death at the age of 92 reminds us all that one person can make a profound difference in the lives of others and the course of history.  She is the embodiment of today’s human rights movements around the world.

“Part of Rosa Park’s legacy was her quiet dignity and disdain for injustice. On that fateful day on the bus in Montgomery, Alabama Parks decided that she could not compromise her essential dignity and self respect.  Her grace and strength exemplified a purity of spirit and commitment to truth. 

“I grieve the loss of Mrs. Parks and extend my heartfelt sympathy to her family and friends. We are a better nation because of Rosa Parks.”