Mission

DC Families for Safe Streets (DC-FSS) confronts traffic violence and its epidemic of tragic injuries and deaths. We advocate for life-saving changes and provide support to those affected by deadly crashes in our communities.

Overview

We seek to transform our grief by telling our personal stories of loss to effect change. We know, and have proof that people who walk, roll, bike, and drive can safely co-exist on our streets. We fight to eliminate all fatalities in traffic crashes because no death is acceptable. These are preventable “crashes” not accidents, and the reckless driving and dangerous street design that cause them have proven solutions.

As we know all too well, traffic crashes and injuries are sudden, violent, traumatic events. The grief and distress experienced is tremendous. We believe that no one should have to endure the loss and trauma alone. DC-FSS provides peer support and is developing assistance resources for those affected by the trauma of traffic violence.

We know that change is hard. For that reason, DC-FSS is committed to this formidable challenge. We want to ensure that all of our fellow Washingtonians can navigate their neighborhoods on foot, bicycle, or car without fear, and never have to endure the pain and suffering we have known.

Background

Families for Safe Streets was founded in 2014 by the New York City families whose loved ones were killed or injured in crashes. Ours is a growing movement to fight for safe streets—hundreds of members, representing the full spectrum of our diverse population—working tirelessly for awareness, policy change, and legislation.

Current chapters:

• Alexandria, VA
• Atlanta
• Central Texas
• Greater Philadelphia
• Nashville
• New York City
• New Jersey
• Oregon and Southwest Washington state
• Richmond, VA
• San Francisco Bay Area
• Southern California
• Toronto
• Washington, DC

The Washington, DC and Alexandria chapters operate in partnership with the Washington Area Bicyclist Association.