On June 13, a vast number of Englewood inhabitants came together for Think Outside Da Block’s 12th annual Roll N Peace bicycle event. There has been a long-standing assumption that African Americans are not fond of cycling. This stereotype is not new to the residents of Englewood. Nevertheless, for them, bike riding during their childhood symbolized a sense of freedom and exhilaration. They would frequently cycle around Englewood, and even take their bikes to neighboring districts to explore.
The objective of this event was to recreate those cherished recollections of cycling and enjoyment. Despite early skepticism and concerns about the practicability and safety of the event, the hosting nonprofit succeeded in carrying out the endeavour. There were doubts that African Americans don’t cycle, and no one would journey through Englewood on a Friday night due to possible risks. However, currently, the organization, which centers its work around violence interruption and adolescent growth, brings back those nostalgic memories via the annual ‘Roll N Peace’ ride, which is aimed to shift community perceptions of Englewood.
The event rallies backing from various strata of the community, spanning from youth to elderly, all joining hands in the pursuit of peace. On the aforementioned date, citizens of diverse ages took part in the yearly ‘Roll N Peace’ tour, which was held in the southern part of the district. They followed a pre-determined eight-mile course, advocating peace in areas that are typically seen as crime-prone and in desperate need of affection, financial backing, and focus.
This group aspires to cultivate serene and healthy communities via violence mitigation initiatives, youth empowerment, the establishment of secure environments, and advocacy for victims and survivors. The bicycle journey commences each year as the sun begins to set. Roughly 500 people enrolled for this year’s ride, which reflects the typical participation numbers. The most significant turnout was observed in 2020, amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, where an estimated 1000 cyclists gathered.
Prior to the initiation of the ride, a quiet moment was observed to pay respects to the young lives prematurely taken away by gun violence. A coinciding small-scale community gathering was organized that consisted of games and activities designed for children, food stalls, and even a bicycle lottery. The eight-mile track began and concluded at Ogelthorpe Park, with the exact path altered every year, informed by crime statistics from the local police precinct or regions that witness rampant violence during a specific year.
The impact of the event was thoroughly positive, with no reports of violent crime related to the occasion. Participants grasped the profound significance of peaceful congregation and the powerful statement of non-violence it represents. Moreover, they collectively accredited their belief that all societies require nurturing and investment. An innovative aspect of the event was the use of an LED screen during the ride, which showcased the names of various community organizations that took part in the activity.
Upon reaching the middle point of the journey at Englewood STEM High School, riders indulged in a brief intermission. The event is not confined to the act of riding, it’s much beyond— it’s about fostering a sense of community, unity and mutual respect. The vision for the future is to transform Englewood into a thriving hub for gastronomy, amusement, and environment-friendly spaces. Thereby, every single day, with every passing event, steps are taken towards constructing a more prosperous community.