Critical Mass is a cycling event typically held on the last Friday of every month; its purpose is not usually formalized beyond the direct action of meeting at a set location and time and traveling as a group through city or town streets on bikes.
The event originated in 1992 in San Francisco; by the end of 2003, the event was being held in over 300 cities around the world.
Critical Mass has been described as “monthly political-protest rides”, and characterized as being part of a social movement. It has been described as a “monthly protest by cyclists reclaiming the streets. “Participants have insisted that these events should be viewed as “celebrations” and spontaneous gatherings, and not as protests or organized demonstrations. This stance allows Critical Mass to argue a legal position that its events can occur without advance notification of local police.
“Still We Ride” documents the history of and showdown between the monthly Critical Mass ride and the NYPD in 2004.
This action packed documentary is a glimpse into the shocking showdown between the monthly Critical Mass ride and the New York City Police Department in the months after August 2004. It is also a wake up call to all Americans, whether they ride bicycles or simply value freedom of speech and the right to peaceful assembly.
On Friday August 27, 2004 just days before the start of the Republican National Convention, a massive police operation was underway. By the end of the night 264 people were arrested. It marked one of the largest mass arrests in New York City’s history. But that was just the beginning!
“Still We Ride” illustrates the climate of both fear and resilience that gripped NYC’s cycling community amidst the ongoing monthly crackdowns.
37 minutes on 1 disc
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Watch the trailer