Commemorating Black History Month

Honoring the contributions of African Americans public transportation and ways to celebrate the month locally

The theme "African Americans and Labor" for Black History Month 2025 invites individuals to reflect on the role that Black Americans have played in shaping the labor force, particularly within public transportation.

Trailblazers in labor and transportation

Black Americans have been a critical part of the transportation workforce, from the early days of railroad construction and streetcar operations to the integral roles of bus operators, mechanics and transit workers today. The public transportation industry has long been an avenue for economic advancement, connecting people to jobs, education, healthcare and other vital services. For Black Americans, public transit has often represented more than just a means of mobility—it has provided access to opportunities in cities and communities where segregation and discrimination limited access to basic services.

In Denver, the contributions of Black Americans to transportation and labor have made a profound imprint on the city’s culture. The migration of Black railroad workers to Denver, particularly in the mid-20th century, contributed significantly to the development of the Five Points neighborhood, a historically Black community that became a cultural hub. These workers helped lay the foundation for a thriving local economy, influencing businesses, social spaces and community institutions that continue to shape the character of Denver today.

Prominent African American figures have made significant contributions to the labor force in transportation, advocating for equality, better working conditions and racial justice. These individuals not only shaped the transportation industry but also played key roles in advancing civil rights and building the foundation for the diverse, inclusive community that exists in Denver.

• C. L. Dellums – A labor leader and activist, Dellums was instrumental in organizing the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters, the first African American-led labor union, which fought for better working conditions and wages for Black railroad workers. His work was crucial in the fight for civil rights and labor rights, and his leadership helped pave the way for greater representation of Black workers in the transportation industry.
• Rosa Parks – While Parks is best known for her pivotal role in the Montgomery Bus Boycott, her legacy in transportation also highlights her contributions to the labor movement. By refusing to give up her seat to a white passenger on a segregated bus in 1955, Parks became an enduring symbol of resistance against racial injustice and discrimination in public transit. Her actions helped ignite a nationwide movement for civil rights and set the stage for further advancements in transportation equity.
• Harvey Pipkin – A former dining car waiter for Union Pacific, Harvey Pipkin is a prominent figure in Denver’s railroad history. Along with his brother Joseph, Harvey joined the thousands of African Americans who migrated from the Deep South to Denver after World War II, seeking better opportunities in the railroad industry. Working as a waiter on trains traveling to cities like Chicago and St. Louis, Harvey became part of a legacy of Black workers who helped shape Denver’s Five Points neighborhood. The Pipkin family went on to establish Pipkin Braswell Funeral Home & Cremation, a lasting fixture in the Five Points area. Harvey's contributions to the railroad workforce and his community remain a testament to the resilience and impact of Black Americans in transportation.
• A. Philip Randolph – Randolph was a prominent labor leader who helped organize the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters, the first African American union to receive a charter from the American Federation of Labor (AFL). His advocacy for fair wages and better working conditions for Black railroad and transit workers led to landmark changes in the industry. Randolph’s work also played a key role in the 1963 March on Washington, where he called for jobs and freedom for Black Americans.

Celebrating Black History Month

As part of its observance of Black History Month, RTD encourages people to support local businesses and participate in events that highlight the achievements of Black Americans. Here are some meaningful ways to get involved this February:

Support local Black-owned businesses

• Visit Support Black-Owned Business, which features a directory of Black-owned businesses, events, training and networking opportunities across the Denver metro area and nationwide.
• Little Black Book: The Little Black Book, produced annually by Denver Black Pages, is a guidebook that spotlights Black businesses and business owners in Colorado, inspired by The Negro Motorist Green Book. Join the 2025 Little Black Book Release Party on Feb. 8 from 7 to 11 p.m. at Mississippi Boy Catfish & Ribs.

Black History Month Events

• Juanita Gray Community Service Awards: This free ceremony celebrates Denver's Black leaders with live entertainment and refreshments. The event will take place Feb. 1from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. at the Blair-Caldwell African American Research Library.
• Black History Month kickoff: On Feb. 4 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., join the Center for Multicultural Engagement and Inclusion and the University of Colorado Denver Center for Identity and Inclusion for a vibrant social event filled with community vendors, conversations and delicious food.
• Visit the Black American West Museum and Heritage Center: Schedule a visit to the Black American West Museum and Heritage Center to gain a deeper understanding of the role that African Americans played in the settlement and growth of the western United States through its collections, programs and exhibits.
• Harriet Tubman in Black History Live: On Feb. 2 from 11 a.m. to noon at Sam Gary Branch Library, take in a performance featuring nationally acclaimed scholar and actor Becky Stone who portrays Harriet Tubman. The monologue, followed by a Q&A session, offers a living-history of a pivotal figure in African American history.
• Black History Month show with Purnell Steen and the Five Point Ambassadors: On Feb. 12 at 6:30 p.m. Feb. 12 at Dazzle, the Ambassadors will play the music of Five Points, and Purnell will share stories of the "Harlem of the West."
• “Resilience” Black History Month Fashion Show: On Feb. 23 from 3 to 7 p.m. Black Pearl Entertainment Inc. will host its Black History Month Fashion Show "Resilience," featuring models, designers and performers, with live entertainment and vendors on site.

Looking Ahead

Black History Month honors those who paved the way for the labor rights and transportation equity. Their contributions remain a source of inspiration, reminding us of the transformative power of work, advocacy and the fight for equality.