FAQS
WHAT IS CRITICAL MASS?
Critical Mass is a monthly bicycle ride that takes place on the last Friday of each month in cities across the world. More than just a ride, Critical Mass is a demonstration of collective power, a celebration of sustainable transportation, and a reminder that cities should be built for people, not just cars.
Critical Mass operates within that tradition with an organized structure to advocate for a network of connected separated bicycle lanes across the city of New Orleans.
WHO’S IN CHARGE OF CRITICAL MASS NOLA?
Critical Mass Nola has a core organizer and a steering committee that gives shape to our movement. The steering committee oversee’s 6 volunteer based working groups. These working groups consist of our:
Mass Mobilization Committee
Art & Messaging Committee
Outreach & Communications Committee
Political Education & Action Committee
Movement Alliance Committee
Fundraising & Finance Committee
HOW CAN I GET INVOLVED?
Show up to one of our rides! Critical Mass Nola meets on the last Friday of each month at 6 p.m. at the Barracks side of the French Market. To join one of or committee’s you must be one of our regular riders. Your creativity and energy are welcome. Critical Mass Nola is a space where everyone is invited to participate, contribute, and forward our agenda. Learn more about these working groups and how you can get involved by visiting our volunteer page.
WHICH OTHER CITIES HAVE CRITICAL MASS RIDES?
Right now, there are around 300 cities worldwide with active Critical Mass rides.
IS CRITICAL MASS ANTI-MOTORIST?
Many of us drive when necessary, and most of us have friends and family who do. The problem isn't individuals who drive—it's the car-dominated system that forces people into cars, often against their will or best interest.
Rather than blaming individuals, we aim to change the way the city is organized. Critical Mass is part of a broader movement for safer streets, cleaner air, and a more livable city for everyone. We believe in building solidarity, not division.
I SAW A CRITICAL MASS RIDER ACTING LIKE A JERK. IS THAT WHAT THE RIDE IS ABOUT?
No. Like any public gathering, Critical Mass occasionally attracts bad behavior. We oppose aggression and harassment of all kinds—whether from cyclists, motorists, or anyone else.
We encourage a welcoming approach that invites dialogue rather than confrontation. If you see something problematic, call it out. Critical Mass works best when we treat others—including drivers—with respect and show by example the kind of city we want to create.
I AM AN UNHAPPY, UNSTABLE PERSON LOOKING FOR SOMEONE TO BLAME FOR THE EMPTY HOLE IN MY LIFE. CAN I USE YOU AS A TARGET FOR ALL MY PENT-UP FEAR, AGGRESSION, AND RESENTMENT?
No you cannot. We believe we are within our rights to act in self-defense.
Maybe take a breath and consider this: Even people you disagree with might actually be decent humans. You might even find that, on some issues, we share common ground.
Most of us at Critical Mass Nola are just people who care about our communities and want to see positive change. We might have unconventional ideas and unorthodox tactics, but we are not your enemies. If you approach us in good faith, we’ll return the favor. Who knows? We might even learn from each other.
I’M A JOURNALIST AND NEED A QUOTE FOR MY ARTICLE.
There’s a long-standing tradition in Critical Mass: we don’t do interviews until journalists actually experience the ride. So, grab your bike, join us, and introduce yourself in person—we’ll be happy to talk then.