BENTONVILLE, Ark. (BRAIN) Twenty Arkansas outdoor sports companies, including several bike shops and bike manufacturers, have released a statement in support of the residents of Minneapolis and others who are peacefully demanding the right to live without fear.The statement was shared with BRAIN by Scott Fitzgerald, the CEO of Pedal Kids USA, a Bentonville-based company that offers kids bike classes and camps.Although the letter has no specific call to action, our hope is that it readsas a non-politicalstatement of communityand humanity, said Fitzgerald, who is the former owner Fitzgeralds Bicycles in Jackson Hole, Wyoming.The statement is signed by at least 15 bike-related businesses in northwest Arkansas, including Bentonville-based bike maker Allied Cycle, apparel brands Flo Bikewear and Kona Tri Apparel, cargo bike brand Gnargo Bike Co., and event organizer Ozark Gravel Cyclists.This week, Minneapolis-based distributor QBP announced it was canceling this month's Frostbike dealer show, citingthe situation created by continued federal immigration enforcement activity in the area.The Arkansas statement and signers:A Call for Humanity and Community SafetyA Statement from the NW Arkansas Outdoor Recreation Business CommunityThe recent tragedies in Minneapolis have resonated deeply within our outdoor recreation community here in NW Arkansas. As leaders in an industry dedicated to the freedom of the outdoors and the strength of human connection, we believe it is impossible to remain indifferent to the violence that continues to claim lives and fracture our society.In Northwest Arkansas, we believe in an inclusive culture centered on the idea that streets and trails should be safe for all. We stand in firm support of those in Minnesota and across the country who are peacefully demanding the right to live without fear. This is not a political issue; it is a fundamental human necessity that precedes everything we do as a business community.NW Arkansas has become a global crossroads for innovation and sport, drawing people from every background to the Ozarks. This diversity is our greatest asset. We reject any force that seeks to promote division or undermine the civil liberties that protect us all. When justice is threatened in one city, it affects the security and spirit of all our communities.We extend our profound condolences to the families who have experienced loss locally, in Minneapolis and across the country. Their loss is a tragedy that reminds us of the urgent work still required to ensure every member of our community is protected and heard.These outdoor recreation businesses of NW Arkansas remain committed to being a voice for progress, safety, and a more inclusive future for every citizen. At this stage, the statement is not tied to a specific call to action. Rather, it is intended to establish a visible coalition of community-centered organizations that can support one another, and our broader community, should future circumstances require additional coordinated advocacy or action.Allied CyclesArkansas MovesBike Shop JoesBike School BentonvilleBuddy Pegs Bike ShopCollab DesignFlo BikewearGnargo Bike Co.Joes Bike ShopKona Tri ApparelLivsnMagnolia CyclesOzark Bike GuidesOzark Cycling ApparelPedal Kids USAScott Adventure LabsSmokehouse CyclesUrban Cycling ApparelViral Bikes
