Rock-n-Roll Revolution (with emphasis on “Roll”)

09/7/08  Print This Post Print This Post    3 Comments      Written by Julie Schwietert
  • Stumble It

“Our way of life,” write the Ginger Ninjas, “threatens our way of life.” For that reason, they started the Pleasant Revolution.

Who, exactly, are the Ginger Ninjas?

Well, they’re the rock-n-roll group that’s taking “roll” seriously… rolling all the way, in fact, from North San Juan, California to southern Mexico.

On bicycles.

With all their gear, including a 1000 watt PA system.

5,000 miles in all.

And what, exactly, is the Pleasant Revolution?

According to the group, it’s a philosophy of not just looking and talking about our way of life differently, but actually living differently.

And so, the Ginger Ninjas are traveling through Mexico, by bike, giving concerts along the way, playing with local musicians, and raising consciousness about sustainable living.

I think it’s pretty cool all the way around, but if it’s a little too granola for you, just check out this video for their song “Dick Cheney (Needs More Love) to confirm that these guys have a great sense of humor:

Photos: dustinj (Flickr creative commons)


  • Stumble It

About the Author

Matador ID: collazo

Julie Schwietert is the managing editor of Matador Network. She contributed a chapter to the recently published book, The Voluntary Traveler, and is currently working on five features for Fodor's Puerto Rico, 6th Edition.

3 Comments... join the discussion!

  • Hal replied on September 8, 2008

    Wow. Having just returned from a bicycle tour of a measly 1,000 miles, I can say that cycling 5,000 with a full PA system isn't granola…it's freakin' hardcore!

    (Report comment)

    ↵ Reply
  • Benjamin10 replied on September 9, 2008

    I met and jammed with Ninjas in Mexico when I was down there a couple of months ago. What was beautiful is that because they are such a scene (with their bikes and gear) everybody asks what they are doing, thus constantly facilitating a dialogue about our "way of life". Like Hal, I give them much respect for not only their mission, but for the logistics they are dealing with to keep the big wheels turning.

    (Report comment)

    ↵ Reply
  • Julie replied on September 9, 2008

    Hal- Thought you might like this piece! :) And Ben, how cool is it that you met the Ginger Ninjas? I think they deserve lots of credit for opening up conversations in a meaningful, gentle, and non-sarcastic, non-angry way.

    (Report comment)

    ↵ Reply

Leave a Comment

Jump To Category:



Explore the Community


Latest Community Blogs

  • LegacyOver forty years after his execution, Che's life and legacy still remain a contentious and polarizing issue. Some ...
    » posted on 20 November 2009
  • We arrived back in the US today, but I just wanted to let you know that we thoroughly enjoyed our holiday in India.&nbs...
    » posted on 18 November 2009
  • A short flight from mainland Japan, Okinawa is the tropical gem in the Japanese tourism crown but is also the site of th...
    » posted on 19 November 2009

Popular Stories on Matador

How to Move to Paris with No Money

This is for Americans with insufficient funds, but with... 

Hostel Sex: A Practical Guide For Backpackers

Getting it wherever a backpacker can...... 

10 Traveler's Tips For Rocking A Nudist Beach

Travelers tend to enjoy ultimate freedom on the road, t... 

12 Personal Travel Websites That Will Make You Quit Your Day Job

... 

Drunk and Driving On Berlin’s Beer Bike

Cars nervously skirt by the slowly moving vehicle, tour... 

10 Multi-Use Items You Should Consider Packing

... 



Focus



Editor Blogs