June 15, 2004 – Organizers of this year’s inaugural World
Naked Bike Ride are calling the event a roaring success. In the spirit of
freedom from social restrictions and dependence on fossil fuels, naked
rides took place in 24 cities around the world on Saturday, June 12. This
international event drew over 1,000 participants including 250 cyclists in
Chicago, 85 in Vancouver, 75 in Seattle, 75 in San Francisco and 60 in
London.

In Chicago, cyclists were initially barred from riding, but met at another
location to thwart police. Eager to bare all and ride as a statement for
oil-free transportation, the ride went into the rich affluent area of
Chicago’s north shore, and passed through notorious Cabrini Green — one of
Chicago’s most troubled neighbourhoods. Once riding, “the police were
really amazingly supportive and they all just laughed and waved,” reported
a participant.

In Vancouver, naked riders pass though Vancouver’s liveliest commercial
district, to enthusiastic and loud applause, then proceeded to ride over
two of the city’s two main bridges.

New Zealand’s Golden Bay reported 50 cyclists, 35 of which were naked, in
the middle of winter.

The only group to face arrest was in Montréal, where Critical Mass bike
activists have experienced continued police harassment.

“These arrests force us to confront an important question,” said Sasha
Webb, one of the participants. “Why are naked cyclists being arrested when
other genuinely indecent crimes are taking place?”

“Despite glaring evidence that CO2 emissions are already transforming the
planet, political leaders continue to emphasize oil and gas as energy
sources, while displaying lukewarm support for green energy or reducing
energy consumption. Every day millions drive their cars, fueling ongoing
conflict in the Middle East that shows no sign of resolution. These crimes
go unpunished, and are encouraged by governments around the world,” Webb
continued.

While a group of happy-go-lucky naked cyclists face persecution, gas and
oil corporations continue to receive tax breaks and subsidies. Clearly, our
political leaders’ priorities are skewed.

Despite unjust police actions in Montréal, cycling activists and their
supporters around the world will continue to take action as long as fossil
fuels are our predominant source of energy. To the Montréal Police Force,
we say, “Get used to it: naked cyclists are here to stay.”