In a move to spearhead a nationwide movement against anti-cruising legislation, City Councilor Klarissa Peña of Albuquerque, New Mexico, is set to participate in the Mid-Year National Cruising Community Policing Conference in National City on December 1-2, 2023.
Councilor Peña has emerged as a prominent advocate for the repeal of anti-cruising laws, emphasizing the importance of building community policing programs rooted in cruising culture. Her efforts have garnered attention and support, leading to the formation of a robust nationwide coalition.
“It’s an honor to join leaders from other cities and communities throughout the country to share our experience and lessons learned here in Albuquerque,” expressed Councilor Peña. “We’ve built a great nationwide coalition, and I’m excited to strategize on our next steps and future projects related to cruising and community policing.”
Councilor Peña will present Albuquerque’s history of anti-cruising initiatives at the conference, highlighting her pivotal role in repealing anti-cruising legislation in November 2018.
The recent milestone in the fight against anti-cruising measures comes from the State of California, which passed AB436, revoking municipalities’ authority to enforce such regulations. The United Lowrider Coalition will commemorate the passage of AB436 and honor Assemblymember David Alvarez at their annual Board Installation dinner at 5:30 pm on December 1st, hosted at the MLK Building, 140 East 12th Street, National City 91950.
Following the dinner, an AB436 Celebration Picnic is scheduled at Kimball Park on Saturday, December 2nd, from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. The festivities will conclude with a cruise on Highland Avenue, symbolizing a triumph for those advocating for change in cruising legislation.
Article by Pollyana Ramos Tucker