We are a group of car enthusiasts who frequently gather for car meets. We have been doing so for years, aiming not just to share our admiration for vehicles but also to support local small family own businesses. We have been subjected to consistent police harassment, getting ticketed and kicked out from parking lots, even when we had permissions from the involved store owners. This seriously impairs our rights to peaceful assembly and negatively impacts the local businesses we attempt to support.

We are not lawbreakers, our gatherings are lawful and we always ensure to secure permissions and adhere to all necessary regulations. Estimated figures suggest there are over 4 million hobbyist car enthusiasts in the U.S. (Source: SEMA Research, 2021). For many of us, these car meets represent a shared community and a space to connect with like-minded individuals. Sadly, we are being penalized for our passion.

It's worth noting that our gatherings often boost local economies. According to SEMA Research, the automotive aftermarket industry represents a $44.6 billion market (2021), of which small local businesses secure a significant share. Our presence in various locales for car meets directly benefits local businesses. Despite this, we face unwarranted crackdowns by police personnel.

We're imploring lawmakers to take into consideration our plea - we call for a revision of local laws and enforcement policies to legalize peaceful car meets. Car enthusiasts shouldn't be persecuted for their passion or their desire to support local businesses. Join us in requesting a respectful dialogue with local law enforcement to establish universality in their approach towards peaceful, harmless gatherings, and in turn, foster community spirit. We would also call for explicit rules and guidelines for holding such events that protect our rights while ensuring public order and safety. Sign this petition to support our cause.