Ed Ewing: Pedaling Towards Equity and Community at Bike Works
Ed Ewing's journey with biking is more than just a story of wheels and roads; it's a narrative deeply intertwined with community, social justice, and a lifelong passion ignited in childhood. Growing up in Minneapolis, Ewing's early experiences with biking around the city's lakes were formative. "I remember learning balance on my first bike, hitting every trash can in the alley," he fondly recalls. These weren't just playful moments but the beginnings of a lifelong connection to cycling, a connection that would later shape his career and mission.
His early days weren't just about the fun of riding; they were about discovering a sense of freedom and empowerment. "Biking was a way for me to process my thoughts," Ewing explains. This personal connection to cycling translated into exploring bike racing and, eventually, finding a professional path in nonprofit bike work. His experiences taught him not just the mechanics of a bike but the power of cycling to transform lives and communities.
Ewing's career took a significant turn when he joined Cascade Bicycle Club, where he pioneered the Major Taylor Project. Named after the first African American World Champion cyclist, this initiative was designed to reach and engage youth of color in Seattle's communities. "The goal was to diversify who was riding and who felt welcome in the cycling community," Ewing states. This project was pivotal, leading to his role as Director of Diversity and Inclusion, where he worked to diversify staff, membership, and programming, embedding the organization within the fabric of Seattle's diverse neighborhoods.
His journey led him to Bike Works, an organization committed to social justice through affordable transportation and youth development. Stepping into the role of Executive Director in 2020, amidst the pandemic and the aftermath of George Floyd's murder, was a significant moment. "It felt like a perfect unfortunate storm," Ewing reflects, acknowledging the challenges and the opportunity to center racial equity in the organization’s work. Bike Works, established in 1996, has always prioritized its core values, and under Ewing’s leadership, the focus on racial equity has only intensified.
"We’ve really focused on our internal culture," Ewing shares, emphasizing the importance of creating a pro-Black and pro-Black woman environment. The organization has engaged in honest conversations about anti-Blackness and implemented systems to address it. Partnerships with organizations like Young Women Empowered, the Seattle Department of Transportation, and North Star Cycling have been strengthened, amplifying their collective impact. Notably, Bike Works' leadership team is intentionally diverse, with 90% of directors being people of color, a testament to their commitment to equity in all facets of their operation.
Looking ahead, Bike Works continues to deepen its community engagement and amplify its mission. The upcoming "Bikecitement!" annual fundraiser on Sunday, April 27th at Sodo Park, is a key event to support their vital work. "Bike Site is a chance for the community to come together, celebrate cycling, and support our programs that empower youth and provide affordable transportation," Ewing explains. It’s an opportunity for the community to join in and support the ongoing work of Bike Works, ensuring that the wheels of change continue to turn, propelling equity and community forward.
Ed Ewing's story is a powerful reminder of how personal passion can translate into meaningful social impact. Through his dedication, Bike Works is not just fixing bikes but building a more equitable and connected community, one pedal stroke at a time.
