City of Annapolis, MD

15/08/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 16/08/2024 01:21

DMV Cycling Groups to Hold 'Ride Against Hate' in AnnapolisDMV Cycling Groups to Host ‘Ride Against Hate’ to Raise Awareness on Racism and Cycling Safety in Annapolis

DMV Cycling Groups to Host 'Ride Against Hate' to Raise Awareness on Racism and Cycling Safety in Annapolis

ANNAPOLIS, MD (August 15, 2024) At 9:30 p.m. on Friday, August 23, 2024, the Push'N Pedals Cycling Club, in partnership with the DMV Cycling Alliance and the Office of Annapolis Mayor Gavin Buckley, will host the 'Ride Against Hate.' The event begins with a meetup at 8:45 p.m. at the old Sears parking lot at the Annapolis Mall. At 9:30 p.m., the group will depart for the ride into downtown. The rain date for the event is August 24, 2024. Riders are encouraged to wear reflective gear and use bicycle lights. Riders of all levels and cyclists from various clubs across the DMV area will unite for a 10-mile casual ride to promote love and unity.

The 'Ride Against Hate' was organized in response to a recent act of racial aggression against African American members of the Push'N Pedals Cycling Club, who were cycling in downtown Annapolis on the night of June 28, 2024. During what has been an annual event for the club since 2021, cyclists were subjected to racial slurs from pedestrians and motorists. The situation escalated when individuals in a black vehicle assaulted the cyclists with rocks and bear mace.

"Annapolis is a city that embraces diversity, inclusion, and unity," said Mayor Gavin Buckley. "The 'Ride Against Hate' is a powerful statement against intolerance and bigotry which have no place in our community. We stand with the Push'N Pedals Cycling Club and the DMV Cycling Alliance in their mission to promote safety and respect for all who share our streets. Together, we can create a safer and welcoming community for everyone."

In response, Push'N Pedals, the DMV Cycling Alliance, and the Office of Annapolis Mayor Gavin Buckley have issued a call to action with this event. The goals of the 'Ride Against Hate' are to:

  1. Raise awareness of the dangers cyclists face on the road,
  2. Stand against racism in all forms, and
  3. Promote love and unity within the community.

Additionally, the event seeks to foster collaboration between cyclists and the local community, highlighting that roads in Annapolis and throughout Maryland should be safe for all cyclists, regardless of background.

For more information contact, please contact Josh Jenkins of Push'N Pedals at 240-393-8807.