The Cherriots Board of Directors launched its “Heritage and History in Transit” initiative earlier this year. Through specially designed bus wraps celebrating recognized heritage and history months, the initiative transforms the daily rider experience into an educational journey.
In June, Cherriots unveiled a bus wrap honoring National Immigrant Heritage and History. Board President Maria Hinojos Pressey emphasized the initiative’s significance: “This initiative reflects our commitment to diversity and inclusion while recognizing immigrants’ vital role in shaping our nation. Public transit connects people from all walks of life, and we’re honored to showcase the immigrant heritage that enriches our community every day.”
Designed by Amelia Crawford, benefits and leave coordinator for Cherriots, the bus wrap captures the physical and emotional challenges immigrants face, highlighting their resilience and hope.
“I was motivated by a deep respect for these journeys and a desire to honor the strength and courage of those who make them,” said Crawford. “At the heart of it all, we are all looking for the same things: love, acceptance, and a sense of belonging.”
The initiative continues with a new bus wrap for Hispanic Heritage/Latiné Month, created by local artist Yasmeen Gonzalez. Her design incorporates Latin embroidery with a modern twist, depicting daily life in the Salem community through a vibrant, pixelated style.
Gonzalez explained, “It appears that more young Mexican Americans have been embracing their culture unapologetically which is a huge contrast from when I was in school wishing I was more like my white peers. I want to celebrate this by embracing my beautiful culture and its textile work as I depict the story of Latinxs unapologetically having fun in this Latin environment.”
The specially designed buses operate on multiple routes, serving as rolling tributes to diverse cultural experiences and histories. Cherriots invites the community to watch for these moving artworks and join in celebrating the rich tapestry of heritage that defines Salem and the surrounding areas.
For more information about the “Heritage and History in Transit” initiative, please visit https://www.cherriots.org/heritage-and-history-initiative/
