A Word About Activism

I don't really consider myself much of an activist.  I don't get real excited about things and then go raise hell with the authorities.  Although there was that time as a 8-year old when I wanted my mother to take me to the grocery store so we could boycott grapes.  Viva La Raza!  But like most Americans I'm pretty complacent thanks to my comfortable lifestyle.

That being said I do take issue with a variety of things that go on in this world and occasionally try to do something about it.  The last couple of presidential elections got my blood pressure up high enough for me to actually donate money towards a political cause!  The current political landscape has me donating money to those who oppose drilling in the Arctic Wilderness, selling off old growth trees in the National Forest and basically auctioning off our precious lands to the highest bidder.

So here's a short summary of my activist activities with a note as to why I think they are important:

!.  Politics - I consider myself a liberal with a touch of conservativeness tossed in for good measure.  When it comes to supporting our infrastructure, helping our our elderly and the homeless, providing good educations and proper healthcare I'm all for it.   But I also believe in a balanced budget, equal taxation no matter how much you make and conservation of resources.  Can't say I'm a fan of our current leaders be it in the White House or in Sacramento.  That's why I'm supporting MoveOn.org both with email writing and with occasional financial donations.  I'm a big fan of their method of delivering letters and emails via a simple sign-on page on their website.  Makes it easy for us armchair activists!  I'm also pretty much in line with their thinking on what needs to be done in Washington.

2.  Environment - I love the outdoors.  There's nothing better than a good hike in the mountains or a great paddle on the ocean.  Most of my trips are to places with plenty of wildlife and scenic vistas.  So naturally I'm all for preserving the wilderness and taking care of our wild places.  Over the past couple of years I've become more involved with the Natural Resources Defense Council.  This fine organization allows me to be active in supporting the wilderness and defending it from the invasive actions of the Bush Administration.  So far we've been able to keep the oil companies out of the ANWR and the loggers away from the old growth forests.  But there's so much more to do.  That's why I continue to support this organization both financially as well as personally. 

I hate to say it but I'm not a member of the Sierra Club.  I probably should be but I'm a little at odds with the way they carry out their agenda.  I do believe they do good work but I also believe they have lost sight of the big picture.  There are other folks out there who wish to enjoy the outdoors but in a way that seems to be different than what the Sierra Club would like you to behave.

3.  Motorcycling - As a motorcyclist I'm often at odds with the general public.  There are those who knowingly try to run me over and then there are those who are completely clueless.  I support the American Motorcyclist Association because they have a tremendous legal council who help to defend the rights of motorcyclist all over the country.  Whether preventing discrimination in health care benefits or going after homicidal cage drivers the AMA is always there to support those of us who ride.  I must say I'm not thrilled with the way they handle the roadracing side of the house but that's another issue altogether...

The Blue Ribbon Coalition is another motorcycle advocacy the pursues the legal rights of off-road motorcyclists.  OHV use is on the rise throughout the country and yet more and more trails and access areas are being closed down.  I'm all for preserving the environment and protecting endangered species but there should be some balance out there.  Make some areas accessible while preserving others.  Be balanced in the use of our wilderness and forests so that everyone - hikers, bikers, mountain bikers, equestrians alike all have places to enjoy their sports.

Ride to Work is another grass roots organization that seeks to encourage folks to use their motorcycles for more than just weekend fun.  The cost savings benefit to the environment is just too good to pass up.  Reduce your use of resources, your time in traffic and your stress level by commuting on a motorcycle.  Ride to Work seeks to inform and educate both the riding and non-riding public with regards to motorcycle use in daily life.

4.  Charity - A few years ago my Mother and I came to an agreement with regards to Christmas.  We both always end up getting the things we want or need and have no need for silly gifts and such.  So instead of buying things for each other at Christmas we instead started giving to Charity instead.  Each year I chose a worthy organization to send a monetary gift.  There are so many good choices out there it's tough to decide who to give to.  Habitat for Humanity, The Alameda County Food Bank, The American Heart Association, the list goes on...

I also am a big believer in supporting people who actively support charities through the various running, cycling, kayaking and other activity related functions.  Of course having ridden two Aids Rides and paddled a few Support Strokes events I'm well aware of the commitment and training required for these functions.  I'm currently working on sponsoring my own event.  Stay tuned for details!

Craig