LOS ANGELES — For over 14 years, the United in Peace Foundation has been organizing monthly Peace Rides that traverse communities throughout Los Angeles, aiming to bridge divides and foster unity. These events are more than just processions of motorcycles and cars; they are a deliberate effort to bring together residents from different neighborhoods, cultures, races, and faiths, encouraging dialogue and mutual understanding.
The Peace Rides feature participants from various groups, including bikers, low-riders, clergy, community leaders, and members of car and motorcycle clubs. Together, they travel through areas that have experienced violence or division, distributing peace-oriented materials such as The Way to Happiness booklet and the Million Man March pledge. The underlying goal is simple: to help people see each other as members of the same community and to promote respect and cooperation.
At the conclusion of each ride, a Peace Festival is held, where residents and participants gather to celebrate. These festivals feature professional performers in hip-hop, R&B, and gospel, along with local talent. The organization describes this approach as "edutainment," combining education, community engagement, and entertainment to create an environment conducive to connection.
The Peace Rides have received support from the Los Angeles Police Department, which assists with safety along designated routes. Residents often come out of their homes to wave and show support, reflecting the growing familiarity of the rides within the communities they visit.
Over the past 14 years, the organization reports distributing more than 70,000 copies of The Way to Happiness and reaching over 2.4 million people through events and media coverage. Notably, an LAPD captain has observed that violent death rates in South Los Angeles decreased by as much as 40% during this period, suggesting a positive impact from sustained community engagement efforts.
The initiative has also garnered commendations from mayors and members of Congress, recognizing its role in promoting peace and addressing violence. United in Peace welcomes organizations, community groups, and individuals to participate in upcoming rides and festivals, furthering the mission of building safer, more connected communities.
