They also organized a massive and sophisticated carpool operation. The MIA raised money to pay drivers, purchase gas, and buy auto insurance. Georgia Gilmore and Inez Ricks formed clubs that competed to see which group could sell more baked goods in support of the boycotters. Rufus Lewis let the transportation committee use his place, the Citizens’ Club, as the carpool’s command center. Walking to and from work became a daily display of pride, an expression of freedom. The carpools reminded the protesters of their communal strength.
