The media need to be more socially responsible
The media need to be more socially responsible
Over the last 6 weeks I’ve noticed that cycling on Auckland’s roads has become dangerous again. Things were going swimmingly, that was until the likes of Mike Hosking started the bike lash. Others were quick to jump in as well. From radio, TV, and the newspapers, anti-cycling was all the rage. And rage it was.
Over the last 5 years I’d noticed a dramatic decline in the amount of incidents I had with cars. I’ve been cycling in Auckland for the last 10 years. The decline in aggression and near death experiences was positive. Only 6 years ago every ride would have 2 or 3 incidents where I could have been seriously injured. Over the last two years that had dropped to less than 1 per week. Given that I cycle almost everyday, it felt like Auckland was maturing, becoming more tolerant, even accepting of cyclists.
Mike and co. fail to realise what damage they’ve caused, what hate they’ve created, and inflamed. They sit there comfortably numb to the dangers they put me, and fellow cyclists, in. I’m a dad, and I’d very much like it to remain that way. I don’t want my daughter being brought up by a single parent. I don’t want my parents, siblings, and wife to have to say goodbye to me because of an incident with a car. There has to be some social responsibility and accountability when given the power that media commentators sway.
I’m sure if you asked them if they’d like to see cyclists run over, deliberately run off of the road, abused, threatened and assaulted, they’d say no. But this is exactly what they are inciting. I’d like to say to all of those with that power, just stop and think if what you’re saying can cause injury. Because if my blood is spilt, it’ll be on their hands.
