Bikes Not Bombs

Bikes Not Bombs was founded in 1984 as a solidarity campaign with the people of Nicaragua, and it was quite literally "Bikes Not Bombs". Since then, we have evolved to understanding bombs to mean something more than just physical bombs, but also injustice and oppression. We are not just in the business of building bicycles, we are also in the business of building communities. We are committed to advancing racial equity and providing tangible opportunities, tools and resources so Black and other marginalized people can empower themselves. In Boston, there is a greater need than ever to help youth develop vocational skills and pathways as an avenue for violence and gang activity prevention. According to a recent report from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, teen and young adult employment has plunged to the lowest level in 45 years with youth of color suffering the worst unemployment statistics- a situation that has only become more dire throughout the COVID-19 epidemic. Lack of opportunity impairs teens' ability to find jobs well into adulthood and leaves them facing consequences of inactivity, and in some cases, pressures of violence and gang activity with no alternatives. To help them not only meet these challenges, but also fully thrive and contribute, we want to step up our game.