[*BCM*] Solidarity Rides in addition to Critical Mass

[Thomas John Vitolo]

Paul, Anne, others:

I was sure this discussion would lead to positive change, and it's starting to!
 Awesome!

Some ideas about solidarity rides have come up: Mem drive, bus lane, etc.  I
think that these could really help to bring focus on specific issues bicyclists
have, and, done in a well organized manner, could really raise public awareness
for specific issues.

What's nice about solidarity rides is that they're designed to be completely
legal -- riding only where right-of-way permits, etc.  So, organize them!  Let
everybody know (a) the reasoning for the ride (b) the rules (this ain't no CM!),
(c) the reasoning for the ride, (d) and the precise route, then, once you've got
a pretty good idea if you've got enough people, (e) let both the local news and
(f) the city of Boston know your plans.

If you want the "power" of CM without the negativity, this sounds like the way
to go.  I might even "poach" riders from CM... go on a few rides, and keep your
eyes open for the riders who you think would behave themselves and follow "the
rules" for your ride.



So, since I don't believe that most CMers are hell-bent on their way being the
only way, I really think you could get a lot of support from the CM group to
accomplish __your__ objective, __your__ way.


I hope you persue this.

 - Tommy V

Quoting Jon Niehof <jon_niehof at yahoo.com>:

> > Another idea: a Solidarity Ride on Memorial Drive and maybe
> > the Columbus/Tremont Speedway in honor of Peter Rowinsky and
> > Scott Jenney and all other bicyclists who have been arrested
> > for the crime of riding a bicycle where it is legal to ride.
> 
> Excellent idea, Paul; I'd certainly join that. (Aside: I have
> been meaning to come out and join the Mass sometime, just for
> firsthand experience and judgement. I promise to redouble my
> efforts).
> 
> Maybe some CM'ers would like to pick this one up and organize it
> locally:
> http://www.rideofsilence.org/
> if you're looking for a slow, legally-abiding ride that has the
> potential to send a powerful message. I simply don't have the
> time to organize it myself.
> 
> 
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Thomas John Vitolo
Ph D Systems Engineering Candidate,
Boston University

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