Los Angeles saw a historic drop in violent crime in 2025, with homicides falling to 230—the lowest number since 1966. While multiple factors contribute to long-term crime reduction, community leaders highlight the sustained efforts of grassroots organizations like the Peace Riders, a group of motorcyclists, low-riders enthusiasts, car clubs and motorcycle clubs that have promoted peace, hope and unity in South Central Los Angeles for 14 years.
Each month, the Peace Riders travel through South Central neighborhoods, stopping to engage residents, distribute peace-focused educational materials and strengthen neighborhood connections. When communities are affected by recent violent crime, the Peace Riders gather with grieving families, offering prayers, comfort and support. They embrace the families as their own, offering themselves as extended family, providing hope and reminding families they are not alone. The rides conclude with community gatherings that often include shared meals and festivals with live entertainment, described by organizers as “edutainment”—combining education and entertainment to inspire positive choices.
“For many of the participants, this mission is deeply personal,” said a Peace Riders representative. “Many have experienced the loss of loved ones through unnecessary violence and are determined to spread the idea of peace and love to others to help prevent future violence.”
The Church of Scientology Celebrity Centre International has supported the Peace Rides since its inception, providing funds, moral support and nearly 50,000 copies of The Way to Happiness booklet, written by L. Ron Hubbard. Described as a common-sense guide to better living, the booklet promotes values that transcend cultural, religious and social differences, distributed as a practical resource to encourage respect, responsibility and happier relationships.
L. Ron Hubbard emphasized the importance of sharing these principles broadly: “All you have to do is keep The Way to Happiness flowing in the society. Like gentle oil spread upon the raging sea, the calm will flow outward and outward.”
After 14 years of continuous outreach, the Peace Riders remain committed to their purpose of bringing people together, providing succor when needed, educating others on universal truths and creating a more peaceful future for Los Angeles. The Church of Scientology Celebrity Centre International has supported the Peace Rides since its inception, providing funds, The Way to Happiness Booklets and moral support alongside the founders.
The significance of this crime reduction cannot be overstated. For residents of South Central Los Angeles, the decline in homicides represents not just a statistical achievement but a tangible improvement in quality of life. The Peace Riders' sustained grassroots efforts demonstrate how community-driven initiatives can complement law enforcement and policy measures to address the root causes of violence. As other cities grapple with crime, the Los Angeles example offers a hopeful model of how persistent, compassionate outreach can foster safer neighborhoods.
