Critical Mass

After watching We Are Traffic, I found that there where several aspects of Critical Mass that most impressed me. I found the biker’s unique form of protest amazing, especially the ways that they were able to make a protest without anger. Their joy and excitement in the ride was obvious to me and hopefully to the drivers who saw them. Although their protest was unorganized, Critical Mass clearly had statements to make, especially on environmental issues. However, the aspect of Critical Mass that impressed me the most was the concept that the bikers could make the streets a place for community. Riding in masses, the bikers could talk and meet each other, unlike drivers who were boxed away from everyone else on the streets. I was also impressed by the clip from Return of the Scorcher. It was fascinating how the bikers could make their way through the streets without the use of traffic signals, but could ensure their own safety by forming enough bikers to push through the cars.
Although Critical Mass does not have a clear goal, and it seems unlikely that the movement will ever sufficiently change the world in terms of state policies, it has what is perhaps a greater power. Critical Mass has the ability to change the mindsets of people, and, with the spread of Critical Mass, to affect the lives of millions.