In an ongoing effort to bridge divides and foster understanding, United in Peace continues its monthly Peace Rides throughout Los Angeles and surrounding areas. These events, more than just motorcades, aim to unite residents from various neighborhoods, cultures, races, and faiths, encouraging dialogue and mutual respect.
The Peace Rides assemble bikers, low-riders, clergy, community leaders, and members of car and motorcycle clubs who travel through communities, including areas that have experienced violence or division. Along the routes, participants distribute peace-oriented materials such as The Way to Happiness booklet and the Million Man March pledge. The initiative's core goal is to help individuals see each other as part of the same community, challenging perceptions that often separate them.
At the conclusion of each ride, a Peace Festival is held, bringing together residents and participants for a celebration. These festivals feature professional performers in hip-hop, R&B, and gospel, along with local talent. The organization describes this approach as "edutainment," blending 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 and neighborhood stops. During the rides, residents often come out to wave and show support, reflecting the growing familiarity of the initiative within the communities it serves.
For over 14 years, the United in Peace Foundation, a multiethnic and multi-faith movement dedicated to reducing violence, has organized these events. The organization reports distributing more than 70,000 copies of The Way to Happiness and reaching over 2.4 million people through the events and media coverage.
United in Peace points to encouraging trends in violence rates in communities where its events have taken place. An LAPD captain noted that over the same 14-year period, the violent death rate in South Los Angeles decreased at times by as much as 40%. While many factors contribute to such changes, the organization believes its sustained efforts play a meaningful role.
Mayors and members of Congress have issued commendations recognizing the organization's contributions to peace and violence prevention. United in Peace welcomes organizations, community groups, and individuals committed to building safer communities to participate or host informational booths at the monthly Peace Festival. For more information, they can reach out via Instagram @peacerideLA.
