Impromptu
memorials honoring the dead have been around for many generations in America. These memorials
often begin with a tragedy involving one or more deaths. For example, a child
might be murdered or killed in a car accident. Within a short period of time, stuffed animals, flowers, balloons, cards,
photographs, and other memorial displays begin to accumulate at the site where
the crime or accident took place. A prayer service may be held there. The
shrines and altars resulting from impromptu memorials touch many people in a
personal manner and serve as powerful reminders of the deceased and the cause
represented.
A
ghost bike, usually a junk bike painted white and secured near the scene of a
tragedy, is the memorial project of a worldwide movement for commemorating
deceased or injured bikers struck down by motor vehicles. Appealing to both
personal loss and moral sensibilities, ghost bike memorials have been displayed
in a growing number of cities for several years. They are memorials personalized by loved
ones and community members as they unfasten earthly connections with the
deceased.
But
this practice has not continued without controversy. Some people consider ghost bikes to be eyesores that should never be used in this manner. Others say there should be
more rules in place regarding bike displays, maintenance, and removal. Concerns about ghost bike removals have been especially disturbing to those who want to commemorate deceased bikers. They say
the memorials should also remain to remind drivers of important safety
lessons, particularly with all the driving distractions that exist.
This
video features various perspectives related to the Kelly Hurlbert ghost bike memorial.
What do you think? Should ghost bike memorials be removed?
Frances Shani Parker,
Author
Becoming Dead Right: A Hospice Volunteer
in Urban Nursing Homes is available in paperback and e-book
editions in America and other countries at online and offline booksellers.
