A Legacy on Wheels: Fort Wayne’s Transit Equity Day Press Conference
By La’Crystele Brown
FWIS Contributing Writer
The crisp February morning was alive with anticipation at Electric Works, a revitalized hub for community and innovation in Fort Wayne. City officials, community leaders, and residents gathered to recognize the importance of equitable public transportation and honor Rosa Parks’ legacy.
City Councilwoman Michelle Chambers was the first to take the podium. Adjusting the microphone, she welcomed the crowd with a warm smile.“Good morning, everyone. Thank you for being here with us today as we commemorate Transit Equity Day and honor the enduring legacy of Rosa Parks,” she began. Chambers set the tone for the event by emphasizing the role of public transit as a lifeline for many in the community. “Public transportation isn’t just about getting from point A to point B,” she said. “It connects people to jobs, education, healthcare, and opportunities. But too many in our community still face barriers to reliable and affordable transit access.” Chambers expressed pride in Citylink’s ongoing efforts to improve equity through initiatives like universal bus huts and wheelchair lifts. “We’ve made progress, but we can’t do it alone. We need advocacy, support, and investment from every corner of this city to ensure that no one is left behind,” she concluded, urging the audience to stay engaged in the push for transit equity.
Next, a video was presented, showcasing testimonies from local transit riders. A mother described how public transit helped her balance work and childcare. A man with a disability shared how newly installed wheelchair lifts gave him greater independence. Others spoke of how the bus system enabled them to maintain their jobs and dignity.
Following the video, Mayor Sharon Tucker spoke, reinforcing the importance of continuing Rosa Parks’ legacy through action and collaboration. Tucker, a long-time advocate for community equity, emphasized the vital role of transit investment in building stronger, more inclusive neighborhoods.Tucker highlighted recent improvements, saying, “Our investments and partnerships with community organizations are crucial steps in making transit work for all residents. But there’s still more work to be done, and we need everyone here to advocate for increased funding and support for public transit.”
She then introduced Jayme Yates, Director of Community Engagement for the Bowen Health Center in Fort Wayne. Yates approached the podium with a confident presence. “Good morning, everyone. It’s an honor to be here with you today as our community celebrates Transit Equity Day,” she began. “At Bowen Health Center, our mission is to strengthen communities and improve the well-being of those we serve. And we understand deeply how access to reliable transportation can mean the difference between good health and missed opportunities.” Yates shared a personal story. “At our location on Goshen Road, patients used to wait on the side of the road—no shelter, no protection from the weather. Imagine standing in the freezing cold, rain, or blistering heat just to get to a doctor’s appointment. For many, that was a daily reality.” But Yates’s tone brightened as she described a solution. “We worked with Citlink to install a universal bus hut outside our clinic. It’s more than a bus hut—it’s a statement of respect and dignity for every person who depends on public transit.” The crowd applauded, recognizing the importance of tangible improvements like this.
After Yates spoke, Councilwoman Rohli Booker took the podium. Representing the 6th District and serving on Citylink’s Board of Directors, Booker shared her personal experiences. “I depended on public transportation to get my children to school, to get myself to work, and to navigate our community,” she explained. “I understand firsthand just how critical reliable transit is—especially for families and individuals in underserved areas.” Booker emphasized that public transportation is a vital equalizer. “Citylink is more than just a bus service. Transit equity ensures that every person, regardless of age, income, or ability, has safe and reliable transportation that connects them to opportunities.”
Sheila Curry Campbell was then invited to present the Rosa Parks Transit Equity Award. As she introduced the recipient, Campbell spoke passionately about the significance of the award. “This award honors those who, like Rosa Parks, have fought for transportation equity and justice,” Campbell said. She called Ernie Johnson to the stage, recognizing his decades of advocacy for public transportation in Fort Wayne.
Johnson stood at the podium, his voice trembling with emotion. “I’m honored,” he said. “I remember when we couldn’t even sit at the front of the bus. Rosa Parks made sure we didn’t have to live that way anymore. Now it’s our job to make sure no one else is left behind.” The audience erupted with thunderous applause.
John Metzinger, Citylink’s director, closed the event with a sobering update on the challenges of transit funding. “The governor’s proposed budget holds transit funding at zero percent growth,” he said. “Without sustainable funding, Fort Wayne could face devastating service cuts—reducing rides, jobs, and opportunities for thousands of residents.” However, Metzinger ended with a hopeful message. “We envision a future where transit connects all people to life’s opportunities. That future is possible—with your voice, your advocacy, and your belief in this mission.” As the event drew to a close, Metzinger made an important announcement. “We invite everyone to join us at 11:30 for a symbolic ride on the Rosa Parks Citilink Bus, heading to Bowen Health Center on Goshen Road for a brief tour of the new bus hut and Bowen Health Center, before returning here around 12:30.”
As we commemorate this special day, we remember the courage of Rosa Parks, who on December 1, 1955, refused to give up her seat to a white passenger on a segregated bus in Montgomery, Alabama. Her simple, but brave act of defiance sparked a nationwide movement that challenged injustice and laid the foundation for modern civil rights and transit equity. So today, we say: Happy Birthday, Rosa Parks. Thank you for your bravery and for starting us on the road to a future where transportation is truly accessible and just for all.