[mgj-discuss] MAY 3, 2002 - Next Critcal Mass

[Adam Eidinger]

Dear Mass Peeps,

People are successfully getting their bikes out of the slammer.  Go to
2235 Shannon Place, SE near Anacostia Metro to pick them up.  They need
I.D., but are letting bikes out based on description.  Most bikes have
some damage ranging from major scratches to totaled wheels and gears.
My Raleigh needed two new wheels :-(.

Thoughts on the Next Mass

After spending time in the Metro Police equivalent of high school co-ed
detention last Friday for the amazing Critical Mass that kicked off and
an inspiring four days of protests against oppression and for a another
world, I realized that our next Critical Mass is next week, Friday May
3.  It would be great if we could all talk to new bikers about what
happened last Friday urge their support.  Out of about 200 bikers we had
40 arrested.  Perhaps we could strategize on promotion, like invest $200
in some high quality, full color leaflets with a schedule leading up to
the World Bank and IMF protests in September 2002 - talk about oil more,
public transport, don't wait for change, make it happen - be the
solution  We could drop like 5000 of these leaflets on bikes and
locations all over - unite the regional bikers.  Make it real big.  We
are almost there.  I know three new bikers personally who told me that
it was most fun they have had DC streets ever and will not miss the next
one.

In today's Washington Post the report was that 19,000 more people took
the Metro to work on Monday because of threat of street closures due to
demonstrations and Chief Ramsey's recommendation.  People turned off
their engines in downtown Washington, DC during our ride as well.  It
was a powerful message and it got people thinking.  Sadly the police
almost killed pedestrians chasing after us and from what I remember of
the ride, we never went down a one way street until cornered by the
police and with no place to go.  Our ride was erratic at times, but
legal.  Bikes always have the right of way.  Only pedestrians trump
that.  Read the fucking law Ramsey!

Still, I freed and fixed my bike today and was back on the streets this
afternoon - we won this weekend! Hell Yeah!

Onwards,

Adam Eidinger


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