An Arlington-based organization wants people to join them for a peaceful protest on wheels.
Arlington for Justice, is asking community members to “Ride for Black Lives” on Saturday, Sept. 26, as they pedal about 14 miles in the name of justice.
The ride will begin at 3 p.m., starting at Drew Elementary School (3500 23rd St. S.) and is expected to end around 5 p.m. in front of the county courthouse (1425 N. Courthouse Road).
The route will take riders by sites in Arlington that are of Black historical significance, organization member Yolande Kwinana said.
Arlington for Justice wants the ride to:
- Call attention to racial injustice and the need for criminal justice reform in Arlington.
- Celebrate Black resilience and history in Arlington.
- Advocate for the elimination of School Resource Officers.
- Advocate for the community’s involvement in selecting a new police chief who is committed to justice system transformation.
- Advocate for ending police intervention in mental health crises.
Kwinana said there will be a rally at the end of the ride, upon arrival at the Courthouse.
“We ride together with our partners, MOMS Demand Action, Black Parents of Arlington, VA Coalition for Transforming the police, WofA, APS Reform and many more. There will be multiple speakers at the rally including elected delegates who have recently submitted bills,” Kwinana said.
County police will escort the cyclists and close some streets along the route, according to Kwinana.
There will also be a shorter ride for those with kids.
“We will have a FAMILY RIDE at the tail end of the protest,” says the event’s Facebook page. “Families can meet at 4:00 PM at the parking deck at Washington-Liberty High School… The family ride will process out towards Courthouse around 4:15-4:30 PM, joining the main ride. The ride will be about 2 miles with gentle hills. MASKS ARE REQUIRED.”
All participants are asked to bring face masks, portable bike-repair tools, and water. Water will also be handed out, and there will be first-aid volunteers along the way.
Photo via Asya Vee/Unsplash