This week we witnessed the unprecedented attempt by the sitting President of the United States to overthrow democracy. President Trump incited his supporters to riot and seize control of the government before Congress officially ratified the election results and confirmed his loss.
Reflecting on these events, we feel outraged and horrified.
The contrast between how the mob of domestic terrorists was treated as they breached the US Capitol and the treatment of those who peacefully demonstrated against systemic racism in places like Washington D.C., Portland, Minneapolis and Detroit over the past months was deeply disturbing. What more proof do we need that we must change the racist power structures perpetrating this inequitable system?
This is not about politics. It is about fundamental principles we deeply believe in: Treat ALL people with decency, respect and equity. When you joined Strava, you joined a global community of athletes who agree to our Community Standards: respect each other, respect the rules and be inclusive and antiracist.
What we saw in the US Capitol this week was the antithesis of what Strava stands for. It was domestic terrorism and we denounce it. Whatever limits or faults our democracy might have, we believe we must protect it.
If you too were appalled by the events this week, you might be feeling powerless to have impact. You are not alone. As a community of athletes, we have the power of our voices and our actions. We encourage you to participate in the democratic process. Educate yourself on local and national issues, support your local community organizers and register to vote so that your voice can be heard. Although this election is behind us, our democracy relies on the many elections ahead that will determine our path forward.
Also, please join us in asking our elected officials to fulfill their commitment to protect our democracy and facilitate the peaceful transfer of power. We’re calling for them to hold Trump accountable for his unconscionable acts against democracy. You can find contact information for Senators here and for members of the House here.
Mark & Michael
“Sport has the power to change the world. It has the power to inspire. It has the power to unite people in a way that little else does. . . Sport can create hope where once there was only despair.” – Nelson Mandela
Reflecting on these events, we feel outraged and horrified.
The contrast between how the mob of domestic terrorists was treated as they breached the US Capitol and the treatment of those who peacefully demonstrated against systemic racism in places like Washington D.C., Portland, Minneapolis and Detroit over the past months was deeply disturbing. What more proof do we need that we must change the racist power structures perpetrating this inequitable system?
This is not about politics. It is about fundamental principles we deeply believe in: Treat ALL people with decency, respect and equity. When you joined Strava, you joined a global community of athletes who agree to our Community Standards: respect each other, respect the rules and be inclusive and antiracist.
What we saw in the US Capitol this week was the antithesis of what Strava stands for. It was domestic terrorism and we denounce it. Whatever limits or faults our democracy might have, we believe we must protect it.
If you too were appalled by the events this week, you might be feeling powerless to have impact. You are not alone. As a community of athletes, we have the power of our voices and our actions. We encourage you to participate in the democratic process. Educate yourself on local and national issues, support your local community organizers and register to vote so that your voice can be heard. Although this election is behind us, our democracy relies on the many elections ahead that will determine our path forward.
Also, please join us in asking our elected officials to fulfill their commitment to protect our democracy and facilitate the peaceful transfer of power. We’re calling for them to hold Trump accountable for his unconscionable acts against democracy. You can find contact information for Senators here and for members of the House here.
Mark & Michael
“Sport has the power to change the world. It has the power to inspire. It has the power to unite people in a way that little else does. . . Sport can create hope where once there was only despair.” – Nelson Mandela