Module 3: "Quote from Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr." and "Rules for Riding Desegregated Buses"

For a number of years, the Negro passengers on the city bus lines of Montgomery have been humiliated, intimidated, and faced threats on this bus line.

Rules for Riding Desegregated Buses

Following their months-long bus boycott, the black citizens of Montgomery, Alabama, got word that the Supreme Court had decided in their favor, and that the buses would have to desegregate.

The boycotters’ organization, the Montgomery Improvement Association, circulated the following flyer to advise people on how to behave in order to maintain the movement’s nonviolent character and enjoy a dignified victory.

The boycotters’ organization, the Montgomery Improvement Association, circulated the following flyer to advise people on how to behave in order to maintain the movement’s nonviolent character and enjoy a dignified victory.

Integrated Bus Suggestions

This is a historic week because segregation on buses has now been declared unconstitutional.

This places upon us all a tremendous responsibility of maintaining, in the face of what could be some unpleasantness, a calm and loving dignity befitting good citizens and members of our Race.

Accept goodwill on the part of many.

Take a vacant seat.

Pray for guidance and commit yourself to complete non-violence in word and action as you enter the bus.

In all things observe ordinary rules of courtesy and good behavior.

Remember that this is not a victory for Negroes alone, but for all Montgomery and the South. Do not boast! Do not brag!

Be quiet but friendly; proud, but not arrogant; joyous, but not boisterous.

Be loving enough to absorb evil and understanding enough to turn an enemy into a friend.

The bus driver is in charge of the bus and has been instructed to obey the law. Assume that he will cooperate in helping you occupy any vacant seat.

Do not deliberately sit by a white person, unless there is no other seat.

In case of an incident, talk as little as possible, and always in a quiet tone.

For the first few days try to get on the bus with a friend in whose nonviolence you have confidence.

For the first few days try to get on the bus with a friend in whose nonviolence you have confidence.

If another person is being molested, do not arise to go to his defense, but pray for the oppressor and use moral and spiritual forces to carry on the struggle for justice.

According to your own ability and personality, do not be afraid to experiment with new and creative techniques for achieving reconciliation and social change.