Catalysts of HOPEHealing
Our People & Earth
Bike4Peace
Bike4Peace
Community of Cyclists Crossing
the Continent
Imagine a nationwide network of communities dedicated to living sustainably in a manner that removes the justification from war. More are realizing this vision every day and we are weaving together the network with a Journey of Hope. There is room for you to be part of our journey across the continent, whether you ride with us or support us from home. We are especially reaching toward organizers with whom we can establish synergy.
George W. Bush says US troops are fighting to preserve the American way of life. That would include consuming far more than our share of the planet's resources, especially oil. Our consumption and fighting over limited resources are combining to effect the climate, pollute our home, and threaten the survival of our species. It's time for a transformation.
We know how to live without oil. Our ancestors did it. Many cultures still use a fraction of what we use in the USA and live happily. We don't necessarily have to give up every modern convenience, but we must build our tools to last and use them sensibly. The biggest challenge is to stop relying on automobiles. To demonstrate how easily this can be done, our community will get around by bicycle, though we may use biofuels to move some supplies. The children will ride in bike trailers behind the adults. We'll carry camping gear, though we'll often be sleeping in the homes of our hosts.
Catalysts of HOPE (Healing Our People & Earth) are building in conjunction with Bike4Peace, whose cyclists ride from Everett, WA to Washington, DC annually since 2005. This year, we envision rides leaving from several points on the West Coast to converge in DC on Sat 22 Sept (World Car Free Day). To continue the momentum, we will cycle south from Portland, Corvallis, and Eugene in mid-March, delivering workshops and empowering conversations down the West Coast and across the country to the East Coast. Utilizing principles of Sarvodaya Shramadana pioneered in Sri Lanka and other models of cooperative community building, the Journey plans to engage in collaborative efforts with community planners, activists, and advocates around the country for the many refugees of Hurricane Katrina.
Cross continental bicyclists are the core of our journey, who welcome additional riders for any portion of the trip. Some will ride across town, some across state, and some the rest of the way to DC. It's especially nice to be joined by riders who know the local terrain when we're trying to find a specific place or determine the safest route. A local cyclist leading the pack can be a great asset, especially if her panniers contain lunch.
Of course, collaboration is the true heart of a bicycle trip. This ride simply could not happen without the support of the generous people who open their homes or churches to the riders. Different levels of support are appropriate at different times. Cyclists are prepared to sleep outside, bathe out of a pot with a towel and some Dr. Bronner's, or eat whatever is available, but they really appreciate a warm shower, a lovingly prepared meal, or soft bed. Hosts who can provide massage, chiropractic care, or a sauna can achieve legendary status. We've found that a simple diet of diverse fruits, veggies, seeds, and nuts is best. We especially appreciate locally grown organic produce. Perhaps a pot luck, with the challenge of using food grown within the county, would be appropriate in your community.
Catalysts of HOPE and Bike4Peace are building a network of people devoted to the search for a sustainable lifestyle and collaborative community. We can use your help with communication, passing the word along to encourage participation, or donating an item from our wish list. We want you to feel unity with a whole nation full of good people who are only a bike ride away. Together we can build a peaceful world.
