Blue Knights International Law Enforcement Motorcycle Club

Overview

The Blue Knights International Law Enforcement Motorcycle Club, often referred to simply as the Blue Knights, is a non-profit fraternal organization established in 1974. It is composed of active and retired law enforcement officers who share a passion for motorcycles. The club promotes camaraderie and motorcycle safety while engaging in community service through charitable initiatives.

History

The organization was founded by a group of eight law enforcement officers in the Bangor and Brewer area of Maine. What began as a local motorcycle club rapidly expanded as chapters were established across the United States and internationally, including in Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia. Today, the Blue Knights boasts approximately 15,000 members across 595 chapters in 34 countries worldwide[1][2][3].

Mission and Values

The primary mission of the Blue Knights is to foster a spirit of brotherhood and mutual support among its members while enhancing the public's perception of motorcyclists. Key objectives include:

• Promoting motorcycle safety and education.
• Facilitating positive interactions between law enforcement officers and the public.
• Providing assistance to various charitable organizations.

The club's motto, “We Ride With Pride,” encapsulates its commitment to ethical motorcycling and community service[1][2].

Charitable Contributions

Since its formation, the Blue Knights have been actively involved in charitable work, contributing over $20 million to more than 1,700 charities worldwide by early 2023. Beneficiaries include prominent organizations such as the American Cancer Society, Make-A-Wish Foundation, and Concerns of Police Survivors (C.O.P.S.)[1][3].

Membership

Membership in the Blue Knights is open to current and retired law enforcement officers who possess arrest powers and hold a valid motorcycle license. Members can ride any brand of motorcycle, promoting inclusivity within the organization. The club prides itself on being family-oriented, with events often welcoming members' families and children[2][3].

Events and Activities

The Blue Knights host a variety of events throughout the year, including:

• Regional conferences and meetings that feature social activities and riding events.
• An annual international convention held every July, which gathers members from around the globe for a week of riding, camaraderie, and festivities.

The organization emphasizes that rank holds no privileges within the club; all members are treated equally, fostering a sense of community and friendship among riders[1][2].

Conclusion

The Blue Knights International Law Enforcement Motorcycle Club stands out as a prominent organization in the realm of law enforcement and motorcycling. Through a commitment to safety, charity, and fraternity, the Blue Knights continue to embody the spirit of brotherhood among law enforcement officers across the globe.

[1] https://www.blueknightsma6.org/blue-knights-info [2] https://www.blueknights.org/about.html [3] https://blueknightsnc2.com [4] https://www.charitynavigator.org/ein/161273552 [5] https://www.blueknightsenglandxi.com