April 15, 2005 - Dennis Archer, Chairman of Dickinson Wright PLLC, former Mayor of Detroit and guardian ad litem for Rosa Parks and Sony BMG Music Entertainment, Outkast, Arista Records LLC, and LaFace Records have finally reached an amicable resolution in what has been a highly contested and ongoing lawsuit regarding the use of Rosa Parks' name on the song "Rosa Parks" from Outkast's 1998 release Aquemini.

The sacrifices and work that Mrs. Parks has made during her life to ensure that all people are treated fairly under the law is acknowledged and appreciated by both sides. Mr. Archer went on to commend Outkast and the other defendants for their interest in keeping the legacy of Rosa Parks alive. Mr. Archer also wishes to assure fans of Outkast of the strong support of Mrs. Parks for their outstanding talent and her encouragement for all youth in their development spiritually, socially, and economically.

All parties acknowledged that the resolution implied no fault by the defendants. Sony BMG, Outkast, and their counsel worked many hours with plaintiff's counsel and noted San Francisco mediator Judge Daniel Weinstein to structure a settlement that will allow all parties to become partners in developing educational programs to enlighten today's youth about the significant role Rosa Parks played in making America a better place for all races.

"I am pleased with this outcome. The parties negotiated in good faith to reach this settlement. As a former Michigan Supreme Court Justice, I want to commend the lawyers from both sides for conducting themselves with integrity and distinction during these settlement discussions and I especially want to thank Mrs. Elaine Steele for her good work in caring for Mrs. Parks over the years and for protecting and promoting her legacy. Finally, I wish to thank Comerica Bank, who already was handling an account of Mrs. Parks, for agreeing to administer the funds that will take care of her future needs," said Mayor Archer.

Looking ahead, December 1st, 2005 will mark the 50th anniversary of Mrs. Parks' arrest, which helped to ignite the civil rights movement. One of the components of the multi-faceted agreement is a tribute CD to be produced by Sony BMG. Outkast, along with many other contemporary artists, will contribute songs to the album. All parties are also excited about partnering to produce an educational tribute television broadcast special about Mrs. Parks' "quiet strength," life, and legacy. This television broadcast will be hosted by Mr. Archer. A DVD of the broadcast will be distributed to thousands of public schools throughout the country to help educate young boys and girls about the significance of the Civil Rights Movement, and the tremendous role Rosa Parks and others played during those turbulent times.