There are many things to love about Chicago. The food, the Lakefront, the hustle and bustle...you name it!

The city has an undeniably rich, and infectious culture - especially during the summer months. But like everything else in the world, COVID-19 has changed the way we’re able to enjoy these things. And even though many major cities have re-opened, going to restaurants, bars, or any densely populated area, creates a high-risk situation.

In response to this, many people around the world have found themselves exploring the great outdoors. Even in places like Chicago - and I LOVE to see it!

“Like most people, I loved riding my bike as a child,” said Diamond Allen.

“But I honestly hadn’t really thought about biking, or being on any kind of bike in years,” she continued. “But then COVID-19 happened, so me and my friends started thinking of ways we could get some fresh air, explore the city, get out of the house, and get some exercise...ya know, help loosen that COVID-weight,” she laughed. “But it was also important to do it safely...and ultimately, biking was the only activity that could ensure all of the necessary safety measures were met.”

So biking it was.

Diamond is an executive member of Streets Calling BC, along with Daphnay Sagaille and Ronald King. She’s also the Marketing Manager for Sprint Corporation by day, and the “fun friend” by night. She’s charismatic, energetic, bubbly, and always down for a good time. So you can only imagine how fun she makes biking through the heart of Chicago look! Even for someone like me, who doesn’t even know how to ride a bike!

“[We] Streets Calling simply formed from a group of friends riding their bikes during COVID. Then once more people started to tag along, we made a GroupMe. Then people started posting on social media, and one person wanted to join, and another person wanted to join...and before we knew it, it became this big thing!”

“The experience is everything you would get while out at the bar, or the club - but safer.”

Streets Calling is a Chicago based bicycling club that focuses on social activism and entrepreneurship. The group is dedicated to increasing health and wellness while using their network to support black owned businesses, especially those within Chicago's black communities.

“During the first week of Black Lives Matter we did a bike ride - not even with the intention of protesting. But we were out riding one Saturday morning, and it happened to be right when the protest started. And to see so many people, of all different races, clapping and cheering us on was such an unexpected powerful moment - because again, we weren’t even protesting. But I guess to see a group of African Americans gathered to do something positive [during a time like this] is a statement in itself.”

In only a few short months, the group has gained close to 900 Facebook followers, formed a chapter in DC, and is currently forming a chapter in Detroit. Nonetheless, Diamond is most proud of the fact that they’ve chosen to make giving back to the community a core initiative.

In addition to building community, bringing attention to, and supporting local black owned businesses, Streets Calling has also served as a catalyst for personal growth.

“Biking has taught me that I’m in much better shape than I thought! Before, I couldn’t see myself doing 30+ miles in one day. But in some cases, I’ve hit 100+ miles in one week! That’s not something I thought that I could do, but I’m doing it.”

“We’ve only just gotten started, so I’m excited to see where this goes,” she said.

“It’s so good to be around African Americans excited about biking,” she laughed. “I don’t think I would have ever expected people to be this excited and passionate about their bikes - and the organization itself!”

“I actually feel like a kid again. I’m excited to go outside, and ride my bike.”

For more information about Streets Calling BC and / or to join their next ride, follow them on social media:

Facebook - Streets Calling Bike Club

Instagram - @streets.calling.bc

The Streets Called, They Answered