When it comes to making Chicago a truly bike-friendly city, equity is the elephant in the room. Whoever you are, and wherever you live in the city, you should have the opportunity to reap the benefits of cycling, including increased mobility, better health, and cost savings.
The grassroots group Slow Roll Chicago has been helping to lead the movement for a diverse, inclusive and equitable bike culture, with a focus on low-to-moderate-income communities on the South and West Sides. From lobbying the city government to install more bike infrastructure in these areas, to doing outreach for the Divvy for Everyone program, to leading a weekly ride series to promote cycling in LMI neighborhoods, Slow Roll has already had a major influence. In recognition of this, the White House recently presented SRC cofounder Oboi Reed with a Champions of Change award.
To celebrate Slow Roll’s very successful year and raise money to help keep the organization’s wheels turning, Streetsblog Chicago is co-hosting their 2015 End-of-Season Benefit Celebration. The party takes place on Saturday, November 7, from 7-10 p.m. at Ancien Cycles, 688 N. Milwaukee Ave., located on the city’s busiest biking street.
The event will double as a meet-up for Streetsblog readers. It’s been too long since we’ve had a get-together with you folks, but our meet-ups are always a great opportunity to hang out with people who are passionate about the livable streets movement, and we plan to host more of them soon.
The Slow Roll shindig will feature DJ Mike Caliber, spinning classic hip-hop and R & B, plus other music for your listening pleasure. Craft beer donated by New Belgium Brewing will be on sale to benefit SRC, and Ancien will also be selling tasty panini, salads, and more.
Slow Roll merchandise will be available, and New Belgium has also provided a classy cruiser bike that we’ll be auctioning off. We’re requesting a $10 donation, with all money going to Slow Roll, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, but give what you can – no one will be turned away.
If you’ve never been to Ancien (the term for someone who has completed the 750-mile Paris-Brest-Paris ride) it’s a huge, beautiful bike shop / café / restaurant / music venue, chock full of cool cycles and accessories. It’s located a short walk southeast of the Chicago Blue Line station. In support of Slow Roll, Ancien is providing the space at a significant discount.
We hope to see you at this very fun soiree. It’ll be a good time – for a great cause.
Let us know you're going on the Facebook event page.
