The Struggles and the Rise (The mark continues)

From the Desk of Ray / RC Jones

President, Northside Political Action Group

My Story: The Struggles and the Rise (The mark continues)

After reading Commissioner Rodney Ellis’ story about the TSU 5 and Selma, I felt inspired to rewrite and share my own story one of struggle, perseverance, and hope during the 1960s and 1970s.

Had it not been for Rosa Parks and her courage, my fellow bus drivers and I at Rapid Transit would not have had the strength to help integrate Houston’s city bus system. At that time, Rapid Transit was the main bus company operating within the city limits. A few of us were willing to endure the heat, the insults, and the name-calling because we believed the time had come to take a stand.

It was not easy. Once we were accepted, no white drivers from Rapid Transit wanted to train us. However, there were two other bus companies, the acres homes 44 Line and Pioneer Bus Company that employed Black drivers. These companies were only allowed to operate outside the city limits. In Houston's history, during segregation and early civil rights integration, there were two major Black-owned or Black-operated bus companies that served areas outside the Houston city limits because the main city service (Rapid Transit / Houston Transit Company) was segregated.

Some of us eventually had routes that required us to relieve white drivers. In addition to driving, we also participated in the early civil rights movement. We would go downtown to integrate lunch counters at major stores like:

Woolworth

Kress

Grants

If you are a young person reading this, these are stories your parents and grandparents can share with you when the simple act of sitting down at a lunch counter was a form of protest.

As time moved on, I became more involved in politics, working on the campaign of the great Barbara Jordan for the 18th Congressional District. Through this work, I surrounded myself with dedicated warriors for justice and equality people like Beulah Shepard, a longtime civil rights activist; Doris Hubbard, a fierce advocate for education and community empowerment; Councilman Earnest McGowen, the first elected representative of District B and a pioneer for minority representation in Houston; Emma Horn, a strong voice for social justice; Reverend C. Anderson Davis, the first president of the NAACP in Houston, who helped lay the foundation for civil rights progress in the city; and Talmadge Sharp Sr., a leader in economic development and a champion for neighborhood advancement.

Back then, Black elected officials were deeply committed to their communities and fought hard to make sure we were included. Council Member Earnest McGowen even implemented minority participation in Houston’s workplace.

Today, I write this article in the sincere hope that Commissioner Rodney Ellis will read it, reflect with compassion, and choose to support me and my family as we continue the pursuit of justice and legacy. I have no desire to waste the inheritance meant for my children and grandchildren on battles that should never have to be fought. The Bible reminds us that a good man leaves an inheritance for his children’s children, and I am determined to fulfill that responsibility.

I am not seeking titles, recognition, or to be part of someone else's living legacy. My only concern is standing for what is right.

A Footnote on My Journey

I will let you in on a little secret:

My life story has captured the attention of a film studio. A movie is currently in production titled:

American Roulette

(The fall means nothing without the rise.)

It is directed by Misha Crosby, a talented British actor, director, producer, and entrepreneur. Misha is the co-founder and CEO of Datura Studios, a West Hollywood, California-based company involved in various entertainment projects.

Because every fall, there is a lesson and, in every rise, there is a legacy. My journey is far from over, and with faith, courage, and perseverance, the best is yet to come.

I look forward to sharing more with you as my story continues to unfold.

Ray/ RC Jones