On June 28, 2026, the roar of motorcycles carried a message far greater than the sound of engines as members of the Peace Rides gathered for their monthly ride through South Central Los Angeles. For the past 14 years, the group has brought together riders dedicated to promoting peace, supporting families affected by violence, and demonstrating that communities can unite in healing rather than retaliation.
After assembling at a local Park & Ride, the riders made their way as a group through local neighborhood streets, concluding the ride at Athens Park. Among those participating was a man attending his first Peace Ride—a 70-year-old professional wedding photographer whose life was changed by the tragic loss of his 32-year-old grandson. Following an argument, another man left the scene, returned with a firearm, and fatally shot the young man. Described by his grandfather as a productive member of the community, he leaves behind 12 children.
Rather than seeking revenge, the grandfather wants to honor his grandson's memory by helping to build a more peaceful community. He has chosen to join one of the motorcycle groups that participates in the monthly Peace Rides, hoping his voice and example can help prevent other families from experiencing similar tragedy. He was presented a copy of The Way to Happiness, a common-sense guide to better living. He accepted it with gratitude and took additional copies to share with others, to spread a message of peace, compassion, and personal responsibility in his community.
Each month, for 14 years, Church of Scientology Celebrity Centre International has donated The Way to Happiness booklets to the Peace Rides events. The booklet is written by L. Ron Hubbard, Humanitarian and Founder of the Scientology Religion. In the booklet Mr. Hubbard states, "Happiness lies in engaging in worthwhile activities" . . . "And that is my wish for you: flourish and prosper!"
The significance of this story lies in its demonstration of how personal tragedy can be channeled into constructive community action. The grandfather's choice to join the Peace Rides instead of seeking vengeance offers a powerful alternative to cycles of violence that often plague communities. By distributing The Way to Happiness, he aims to encourage personal responsibility and compassion among others. The Peace Rides themselves, sustained for over a decade, show the enduring commitment of local riders to foster unity and support for grieving families. For the wider community, this model of healing through collective action and positive messaging could inspire similar initiatives in other cities grappling with violence. The involvement of the Church of Scientology Celebrity Centre International in providing the booklets highlights a partnership that amplifies the rides' message of peace. As Los Angeles continues to confront challenges related to gun violence and community trauma, efforts like the Peace Rides offer a blueprint for turning grief into a force for good.
