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As we approach Juneteenth, we reflect on its historical weight and the progress it represents. The holiday marks the day when enslaved people in Galveston, Texas, were finally informed of their freedom on June 19, 1865, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed. Juneteenth serves as a powerful reminder that the journey toward equality has never been swift, and it continues today.

At CATA, Juneteenth calls us to consider not only how far we’ve come as a nation but also the role public transportation plays in that progress. We know that transportation is about more than moving people from place to place. It is about access — to jobs, education, healthcare and opportunity. And historically, transit has often intersected with the fight for civil rights and social justice.

Public Transit and the Road to Civil Rights

The connection between transit and the civil rights movement is deeply rooted in American history. One of the most pivotal moments came in 1955, when Rosa Parks refused to give up her seat on a segregated bus in Montgomery, Alabama. Her quiet act of resistance helped launch the Montgomery Bus Boycott, a 13-month protest that galvanized a community and fueled a national movement for racial justice.

Public transit, in that moment and many others since, became a stage for progress. It has shown us that the vehicles we ride daily can also carry ideas and change.

Today, buses and transit systems serve as places of connection and inclusion, shaped in part by those courageous voices who came before us.

CATA’s Commitment to Equity and Access

At CATA, we’re all about moving forward and making sure everyone is on the same route toward fairness and equality. We are committed to fostering a workplace that reflects the values of Equity and Access. We believe that when people feel welcomed, valued, and respected, our team can truly thrive.

We understand that the journey to inclusion doesn’t happen overnight, and that’s why we’re constantly looking for ways to improve. From ensuring that our services are accessible to people from all walks of life to hiring a diverse team that reflects our community, we are determined to create a space where everyone feels like they belong. Whether it’s through training, open discussions, or leadership that encourages diversity, we’re committed to making sure we provide a safe, inclusive environment for both our staff and our riders.

Our goal is simple: to ensure that everyone in our community has equal access to the opportunities public transit provides. We’re focused on creating services that remove barriers and provide a smooth ride for everyone—regardless of race, ability, or background.

Looking Ahead on the Road to Progress

Juneteenth invites us to pause, remember and recommit. At CATA, we view this moment as a chance to reflect on the work still ahead — both in transit and in society. The road to justice is long, but we believe every mile matters. And every step we take toward inclusivity helps us move as a community.

Transit has always been about connection. On this Juneteenth, we honor the power of those connections — and the strength that comes from ensuring no one is left behind.

Our journey continues. And we are proud to be riding forward together.