Jo Ann Robinson was a civil rights activist who helped plan and execute the Montgomery bus boycott. Robinson was a member of the Women’s Political Council (WPC), which made the initial call for the boycott in the days immediately after the arrest of Rosa Parks. After Rosa Parks’ arrest, Robinson wrote, printed, and distributed thousands of fliers calling for a one-day boycott of the buses.

 

After the first day’s success, the Montgomery Improvement Association formed to continue the boycott. Robinson helped lead this organization, coordinated alternative transportation for workers, and attempted to negotiate with city officials to end the boycott. She worked tirelessly for the integration of Montgomery buses and the fair treatment of its black passengers.