Ghost stroller protest after a tragic weekend in New York City

Hundreds are protesting in New York City today after a tragic weekend that saw many vulnerable road users, including a three-month-old baby, killed by drivers of motor vehicles.

According to the advocacy group Transportation Alternatives, a cyclist was killed and two injured on the Upper West Side in one incident, while a baby was killed and its mother critically injured in another. Another cyclist was left in critical condition in Brooklyn.

These crashes push the total number of people killed in traffic violence in 2021 to 188.

The group is organizing a white stroller protest, akin to the ghost bike memorials placed around cities when cyclists are killed on the streets.

“We’re furious and heartbroken by the deadly and daily occurrence of traffic violence on Mayor de Blasio’s streets,” said Danny Harris, executive director of Transportation Alternatives in a statement. “The deadliest year under Mayor de Blasio’s tenure shows no sign of letting up after crashes killed six people, including a three-month-old baby, over the weekend. We send our deepest condolences to all of the families and communities devastated by these preventable crashes.”

This morning, 10 white ghost strollers, flowers, and candles will be placed in front of City Hall in a protest organized by Families for Safe Streets and Transportation Alternatives Members.

The tragedies come as New York City tries to garner some momentum for the safe streets movement with the initiation of the two bridge cycling projects and a more ambitious cycling plan. Clearly, much more needs to be done to protect vulnerable road users in the five boroughs of New York.

Later today, New Yorkers will come together in protest again – led by parents with strollers – for a citywide call to action at 5:30 pm in Union Square.  

“We need our next mayor and city council to chart a new path forward for NYC built on safe streets for people,” said Harris.

“New Yorkers don’t need any more statements, empty promises, or go-nowhere task forces — we need immediate action to save lives.”