The Tournament of Roses Parade (also known as the Rose Parade), which occurs in Pasadena, California every New Year’s Day, is doing something very special this year.
For its 126th tournament, 2015 President Richard L. Chinen chose “Inspiring Stories” as the theme of the parade, and named Louis Zamperini as Grand Marshal. Unfortunately, Zamperini passed away prior to this New Year’s celebration. Although Zamperini’s story of surviving as a POW from WWII is incredibly inspiring, choosing a noteworthy Grand Marshal is not special.
Every year, companies, organizations, schools, and communities build floats or perform for the parade goers, which according to LA Tourist is comprised of approximately one million people. In 1958, the city of Pasadena elected one of their city hall employees, Joan Williams as “Miss Crown City,” an honor that guaranteed her a ride in the Rose Parade. Despite her light complexion, Williams has an African American heritage, that according to KTLA News she never tried to hide. When the city of Pasadena became aware of her heritage, they chose to not enter the parade that year. They claimed they couldn’t afford a float, but Williams knew better. She told the Pasadena Star News that the city of Pasadena had already paid for a portrait of her, tiara and all.
So, what’s so special about the Rose Parade this year? Joan Williams. At 83 years of age, 56 years after she was denied her opportunity to participate in the parade, she will finally be included. Her story, as many of those who survived the Civil Rights movement, is also inspiring. Considering that she is long overdue her ride in the parade, and “Inspiring Stories” is the theme, it is only fitting that she ride in the lead (also called theme) float this year. She may not be the queen of the parade, but hopefully she’ll feel like one.
She admitted to the Pasadena Star News that it doesn’t mean as much to her now as it would have back in 1958, but at least she can add this small token of conciliation to her story. She is quoted as saying, “Now I’m expecting a great-grandchild and now with that great-grandchild when he sits on my lap and I tell the story, it will have a happier ending.”
Happy New Year Joan Williams!
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