Outlaws vs. Predators

Worldwide motorcycle club, “Bikers Against Child Abuse”, fights to protect and empower abused children

The+logo+for+the+charitable+motorcycle+organization%3A+B.A.C.A.

The logo for the charitable motorcycle organization: B.A.C.A.

Rayna Minix, Entertainment Editor

For many years, bikers all across the world have faced stereotypes and negative judgement. But there are numerous stories of motorcycle clubs working to create a more positive community and to have an impact on the lives around them. Of course, these stories are nowhere near as publicized as the ones that show MC’s in an unfavorable light.

For example, there is an organization by the name of B.A.C.A., which stands for Bikers Against Child Abuse. 

B.A.C.A. was formed over twenty years ago with the intention of “creating a safer environment for abused children,” as stated in their mission statement. And that is exactly what they’ve done.

So, how does it work? When a child has been faced with abuse, B.A.C.A. steps in. They are contacted, whether it is through the child or child’s family, or through another outside organization already aware of the child’s situation. They will set up a meeting with the child wherever that child feels the most comfortable. The club gathers as many B.A.C.A. members as possible and ride out to wherever that location may be. 

Each child is presented with a vest, symbolizing the kutte’s that the members wear. They are then assigned to certain members that will be their “primaries,” which will be on call for that child every hour of every day. The child is also given a photograph of them with their new family, with the hopes that the child will find comfort in the message of, “I am not alone, and you don’t want to mess with my family.” This is what is called Level 1 Intervention. 

If these efforts do not prove to be effective, they will take further actions. Members will make themselves present more often in the child’s home or wherever else they are at risk. While they do not condone violence in any sense, they are prepared to handle that if the situation were to arise, by means of protecting the child. 

Obviously, everything that this organization stands for and does for children is incredible, in every way. But one thing they partake in may just be the most inspiring. When a child has a court case, the members will escort that child to the courthouse and sit in the courtroom, empowering the child to not be afraid.

With charters all over the globe, this organization continues to help countless kids who may otherwise never experience what it is like to have a loving support system. 

B.A.C.A. is completely non-profit, so none of the members get paid any amount, not even the presidents. But the reward they receive is something much greater than cash. International President from 2006-2008, Tree, says, “What do I get out of B.A.C.A.? Wow… The knowledge knowing that I’ve done something that no one else can do. And that’s to give a child their life back.” 

For more information, you can visit their website by clicking here, or searching bacaworld.org 

The views in this column do not necessarily reflect the views of the GENESIS staff. Email Rayna Minix at [email protected] .