Last year, I reported on the dispute that erupted after the death of Civil Rights Icon Rosa Parks in Detroit in October 2005. Ms. Parks left the bulk of her estate to an institute which she had founded together with her confidante and caregiver Elaine Steele (who had also held Ms. Parks’ power of attorney). The crux of this dispute revolves about who will control the use of Rosa Parks’ likeness and thereby reap the royalties derived through its sale. Since her death, the likeness of Rosa Parks has been used in national advertisements for Chevrolet and Apple Computer — this is big business. Today’s Detroit Free Press reports that the issues raised by angry family members will be tried before a jury this February.
