On June 28, 2026, the Peace Rides motorcycle group held their monthly ride through South Central Los Angeles, a tradition spanning 14 years that brings together riders dedicated to promoting peace and supporting families affected by violence. The group, which gathers at a local Park & Ride, rides through neighborhood streets before concluding at Athens Park. The rides aim to demonstrate that communities can unite in healing rather than retaliation.
Among the participants was a 70-year-old professional wedding photographer attending his first Peace Ride. His 32-year-old grandson was fatally shot after an argument escalated, leaving behind 12 children. Rather than seeking revenge, the grandfather chose to honor his grandson's memory by joining the Peace Rides, hoping to prevent other families from experiencing similar tragedies.
The grandfather was presented a copy of The Way to Happiness, a common-sense guide to better living written by L. Ron Hubbard, founder of the Scientology religion. He accepted it with gratitude and took additional copies to share with others, spreading a message of peace, compassion, and personal responsibility. For 14 years, the Church of Scientology Celebrity Centre International has donated The Way to Happiness booklets to the Peace Rides events.
The impact of this initiative extends beyond individual healing. For business and community leaders, the Peace Rides offer a model for grassroots efforts to address violence and foster social cohesion. The group's sustained 14-year commitment shows that community-based programs can create lasting change, potentially reducing the economic costs associated with violence, such as healthcare, law enforcement, and lost productivity. The grandfather’s choice to channel grief into peace-building could inspire others in similar situations, strengthening community resilience.
As violence continues to affect urban areas, initiatives like the Peace Rides highlight the role of non-governmental organizations in conflict resolution. The collaboration with the Church of Scientology demonstrates how religious groups can contribute to public safety and community well-being. For leaders in business and technology, this story underscores the importance of social responsibility and the potential for partnerships with community organizations to address systemic issues.
The Scientology religion, founded by L. Ron Hubbard, has expanded to more than 11,000 churches, missions, and affiliated groups in 167 countries, with millions of members. The first Church of Scientology was formed in Los Angeles in 1954.
