In the heart of Santa Fe, a poignant discussion unfolded during the recent BPAC Committee Meeting, where members gathered to address pressing issues surrounding cyclist safety and law enforcement bias. The atmosphere was charged with personal stories and a shared commitment to change, as committee members reflected on the challenges faced by cyclists in the city.

One member, visibly affected by his own experience, recounted a harrowing incident from May when he was struck by a driver who ran a red light. He described the moment vividly, recalling how he was in the crosswalk, legally entitled to cross, when the vehicle collided with him. The aftermath was not just physical; it was a deep sense of injustice as he recounted how the responding officers seemed to side with the driver, who falsely claimed he was waiting to turn right. “To just be put in there and shipped off… is ridiculous,” he expressed, highlighting the frustration many cyclists feel when their safety is compromised, yet their concerns are dismissed.

The member's account resonated with others in the room, sparking a broader conversation about the systemic issues within law enforcement regarding cyclist safety. He shared the emotional toll of his injuries, including a severe concussion, and the discouraging advice he received from police, suggesting that cycling in Santa Fe was inherently dangerous. “There are not enough police to catch everyone running red lights,” he recalled them saying, a statement that left many questioning the commitment to cyclist safety in the city.

Amber Wang, another committee member, echoed his sentiments, expressing a desire to explore actionable solutions. “I just wonder what we can do as a committee,” she pondered, signaling a collective yearning for change and improvement in the treatment of cyclists.

As the meeting progressed, it became clear that the discussions were not just about individual experiences but about a community grappling with the need for safer streets and more equitable treatment from law enforcement. The voices of those affected by these issues are crucial in shaping policies that prioritize safety and accountability.

The meeting concluded with a sense of urgency and determination. The committee members left with a shared goal: to advocate for a safer environment for cyclists in Santa Fe, ensuring that no one else has to endure the same injustices. As they move forward, the hope is that their efforts will lead to meaningful change, fostering a city where all residents can navigate the streets safely, regardless of their mode of transportation.