Comments on: The Millennial Mile: How Do We Turn Less Driving Into More Bike Advocacy?

By: Khal Spencer

Khal Spencer — Thu, 01 Nov 2012 21:16:29 +0000

Responding to Russ as one of those old white men. First, no one likes to sit and watch the grass grow, least of all me. But realistically, it does take time for grass to grow and it doesn’t grow by itself but through nurture, both short and long term. Its less about being passive than about being more persistent than anyone else while also running the rest of one’s life.

As far as intimidation. The LCI (League Cycling Instructor listserv had a fair number of complaints about the cranky nature of some advocates/LCIs and how intimidating it could be to new or less egotistic member. I’m sure some of those were directed at Yours Truly. I admit its tough for me to put a lid on the Statler and Waldorf act 100% of the time, especially when debating new concepts that still have growing pains. But politics and advocacy are a relay race, and even old white men don’t want to have to run around the track holding that baton forever.

By: Katie Omberg

Katie Omberg — Wed, 31 Oct 2012 18:35:43 +0000

Hi Laura,
Thanks for your comment! Judging by nothing but looks alone, I think maybe 1/3 of the people at the meeting were under 35.

By: Laura

Laura — Fri, 26 Oct 2012 22:19:46 +0000

An honest question: How many millennials were a part of this meeting with the 20-some professionals? Were any millennials invited to be a part of this conversationl and talk freely about why they’re not involved? Or was this a sit-down of older folks, pondering what to do with the kids?

I would argue that most millennials aren’t involved because there’s no room for them at the table. They have never been actively courted as important members of society, whose opinions and ideas would actually be heard and respected. Instead, we’re often referred to as this confusing “other” instead of talked to on a one-on-one basis, like a normal person.

By: Link roundup: October 26 | Tucson Velo

Link roundup: October 26 | Tucson Velo — Fri, 26 Oct 2012 14:21:23 +0000

[...] The Millennial Mile: How Do We Turn Less Driving Into More Bike Advocacy? [...]

By: Tanya

Tanya — Fri, 26 Oct 2012 13:52:26 +0000

I’m on the older edge of the Millenials, but I, too, feel that it’s important to address the Millenial mode shift. I am working to implement a bike plan at an institution to address the increase of cyclists on campus. I would love to discuss some insights, opportunities and the role of higher education in shaping young adults.

By: Today’s Headlines | Streetsblog Capitol Hill

Today’s Headlines | Streetsblog Capitol Hill — Fri, 26 Oct 2012 13:40:53 +0000

[...] Can Millennials’ Multi-Modal Transpo Habits Translate to Stronger Advocacy? (Bike League) [...]

By: Carolyn

Carolyn — Fri, 26 Oct 2012 12:49:29 +0000

Great points, Russ — and, honestly, all things we’re very much working on right now. Stay tuned!

By: Russ Roca

Russ Roca — Fri, 26 Oct 2012 04:28:18 +0000

As a Millennial and bike advocate interested in bike travel and tourism, I can think of my early involvements and frustrations with bike advocacy.

-Many young riders like bikes because its fun. There does not seem to be an engaging way to channel that initial bliss. “Bike fun” is often not taken seriously by the more policy-oriented side of advocacy.

-I would also argue that Millennials are more goal oriented and need tangible results. Perhaps in part showing the popularity of sites like Kickstarter and Instructables. We’re not going to sit and wait passively for the grass to grow. So more short-term goal oriented campaigns to keep people engaged.

-Lastly, bike advocacy can be terribly intimidating. For many, it still appears to be the realm of the “old white men” types (no offense). How do you even get involved in serious bike advocacy? Is there a glossary of terms or a primer? Take down the intimidating walls and barriers to entry.

My two cents