Bikes rolled through the streets of North Lawndale on May 17 for a six mile anti-violence ride, as community members took part in the fifth annual Biking Out Negativity, organized by Boxing Out Negativity.
Boxing Out Negativity focuses on promoting peace and empowering local youth through positive community engagement. The event united residents in reclaiming their neighborhood, raising awareness and inspiring hope for a safer future.
Prior to the ride, an Impact Expo was held at St. Agatha, 3147 W. Douglas Blvd., to highlight local organizations and resources dedicated to community healing and development.
Cook County Commissioner Michael Scott Jr., Alderwoman Monique Scott and State Sen. Lakesia Collins also attended the expo. Riot Fest was also represented, featuring local ticket sign-ups and hiring opportunities.
Robbie Johnson and Patrick Bill Daniels who are members of the Community Leadership Fellows (CLF) thanked the vendors who helped make the gathering possible. The event marked CLF’s first capstone project, bringing together residents, partners and organizers for an afternoon of connection and celebration.
Nick Hampton volunteered by providing quick bike repairs and bike checks to ensure everyone was prepared for the day’s activities. Hampton owns the bicycle repair shop N&A Slick Cycle, located in East Garfield Park, which he started five years ago.
“I’ve got an Allen wrench and a lot of skills, so I am here whatever I can help with. I am excited for this ride,” Hampton said.
Jerk rice bowls from J. Spice and free samples from MadeGood were among the offerings at the Impact Expo as well as a live DJ set.
Jess Larson, senior manager of Community Impact and Strategy at Girls in the Game, hosted a table to celebrate with Boxing Out Negativity and recruit youth for their summer programs. The organization also donated bikes for the ride.
“We do a wide range of sports – things they’re familiar with, like football, soccer or basketball, and things that may be new to them, like lacrosse, tennis or rugby,” Larson said. “We have lots of guest coaches from teams across the city who come in and teach their sport as well. It’s a really great time for girls to try a bunch of new things and also learn about social, emotional and leadership as they spend summer with us.”
Dr. Barbara Jeanette Andrews, the founder and executive director of the Open Arm Foundation, distributed donated household essentials to families in need during the expo.
“These items were donated by Walmart, Costco and some of our other community partners,” she said. “We go to a different community every week and provide sustainable living essentials to help improve the quality of life for those facing financial hardship.”
When asked what Andrews was most excited about at the event, she responded that it was having the opportunity for the Open Arm Foundation to come out and share the services they provide to the community.
“I’m thankful for the opportunity not only to bless and give these products to families to help improve their quality of life, but also to let them know that the Open Arm Foundation is a resource for them,” Andrews said.