FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Friday, July 25th, 2003
Contact: Scott Loughrey
scottL44-AT-yahoo.com


Critical Mass to Ride Friday, July 25th


On Friday, July 25th, 2003, a Critical Mass bicycle ride protest will take place in downtown Baltimore. It will start between 6:00 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. Riders will meet at Charles and Redwood Streets. Once it begins the riders will distribute leaflets and ride on public streets.

Last March 28th, Baltimore City police employed extreme violence to break up a Critical Mass. During the melee they initiated, one bicyclist was beaten and another had his bicycle thrown at him. The latter individual was charged with assault—for having the bike thrown at him. Several Critical Mass bicyclists present during the March ride have filed civilian complaints with the police department.

In recent months the police have been arriving in large numbers before the rides began. For example, before the June protest commenced over twenty police officers were present.

The slow ride normally begins north up Charles street. No one usually knows where it ends.

Critical Mass is an international movement which protests SUVs and the car culture generally. Participants also advocate increased investment in public transportation. Another concern is increasing the foot-traffic in cities (particularly on Charles street). In addition, it calls for increased safety for bicyclists. Finally, Critical Mass participants desire a slower-paced, more European lifestyle.