Here’s to celebrating this place we call home by moving from passive observation to active engagement. We’ve rounded up a handful of ways in Richmond to illuminate an inclusive community and promote social justice and racial equity in everyday actions.
Richmond Climbers Coalition
A group of Richmond-based climbers have come together to bring change and equity within local and national climbing communities. The growing group of climbers, called the Richmond Climbers Coalition, is working to make climbing in Richmond accessible to all while providing resources for climbers and climbing gyms. In addition, the group is hosting fundraising events to increase inclusivity and visibility of Black, Indigenous, and other People of Color in the sport. Richmond Climbers Coalition encourages climbers to reflect on the privilege of rock climbing and how to be an ally in the outdoors. Join the Richmond Climbers Coalition as they host meetups around RVA and create community.
The “Black is Beautiful” beer initiative is a nationwide, collaborative effort to raise awareness for the injustice people of color face and raise funds for police brutality reform and legal defense for those who have been wronged. There are over 900 breweries committed to this initiative and over 30 breweries in Virginia working to spread awareness through craft beer. Here in Richmond, watch for Black is Beautiful beer releases by The Veil benefiting The Richmond Transparency and Accountability Project, The Answerbenefiting Campaign Zero and SisterFund, Hardywood benefiting the Richmond Black Restaurant Experience, Strangeways benefiting Girls for a Change, and more breweries to be announced. Visit Richmond's breweries participating in the Black is Beautiful beer initiative to show that the brewing community should be an inclusive place for everyone of any color.
Richmond artist Keith Ramsey describes the Bike Monday Bros as, “Just a bunch of bros who like riding bikes. If you want to join us just show up and enjoy the ride.” Ramsey, along with a group of friends, have long devoted their Monday evenings to bicycling around the city they love. But it wasn’t until recently that the group formalized their efforts by hosting a Unity Ride for Black Lives last month. Over 100 cyclists showed up to join Ramsey and crew for the event as Richmonders pedaled their way from Monroe Park through Jackson Ward, Scott’s Addition, and Carytown. Due to the success of the Unity Ride, the Monday Bike Bros have popped up a Facebook page and Instagram to announce each Monday’s route. Everyone is invited to join the ride and conversation, while celebrating an inclusive Richmond.
Visit Marcus-David Peters Circle for an opportunity to redefine Richmond. You’ll find guerrilla gardening, people picnicking, basketball, music, dance, and community-wide conversation.
