In early May, many of us went out for our 2.23 mile runs for #IRunWithMaud. It was a meaningful moment, but as we reflected, will this just be a moment, or will we do anything?
The killing of George Floyd, and the expressions of anger in our city and around the nation, have amplified the need for change in our communities.
The full scope of the times we live in has introduced the concept of “new normal”. As we reflect on what our old normal truly was, we hope we turn our backs on those norms, and demand of ourselves a new way.
A key part of our mission at CARA is “…providing accessible opportunities for all runners to train, race, learn, be social and volunteer.”
We certainly believe we have had our share of successes on this mission. However, reflecting on how many black and brown runners, like Ahmaud Arbery, have never been able to run without fear of racial profiling or attack; we realize we must expand our definition of accessibility.
Most of us have always had the privilege to go for a run without fear. Until this is true for everyone, running is not accessible for all. While our communities have challenges far larger than running, it is our tool, and we believe in its ability to change lives and affect communities.
CARA must be more deliberate in how it serves black and brown runners, and the specific challenges faced to enjoy running.
We do not yet have the answers, and for most of us the understanding, but CARA is committed to listening, learning, and following that with work. Since early May, we have been working to understand how to address this challenge, and we look forward to working with everyone in our running community in the weeks and months ahead.
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