Legislators Pedal to Fight Domestic Violence at Family Bike Ride

The Board took to the trails on a chilly Sunday morning, October 26, to lead a family-friendly bike ride in support of domestic violence victims. Wearing event t-shirts emblazoned with the purple logo of the Break the Cycle 6-Mile Bike Ride to End Domestic Violence, the group cycled along Westchester’s scenic North County Trailway. The event benefited Pace Women’s Justice Center, a critical legal resource for victims of domestic violence in the New York Metro area.

Supporters included County Executive Ken Jenkins and Legislator Shanae Williams (D–Yonkers), who noted the importance of spotlighting PWJC’s work all year long, not only during Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

Chairman Vedat Gashi (D–New Castle, Ossining, Somers, Yorktown), said, “Sincere thanks to the Pace Women’s Justice Center for organizing today’s Break the Cycle ride and bringing us together to support their lifesaving work. Domestic violence is a crisis that exists in the shadows, affecting families regardless of wealth or status. Gatherings like this help expose a problem too many face in isolation. We’re riding with survivors to show there is support and hope.” 

Cindy Kanusher, Executive Director for Pace Women’s Justice Center, said, “We are deeply grateful to the Westchester County Board of Legislators, Chairman Vedat Gashi, and all our community partners for standing with us at Break the Cycle. At PWJC, we help survivors every day navigate the legal system and heal from the impact of domestic violence—but this work takes all of us. Together, we’re shining a light on the realities of abuse and reinforcing that support and justice are within reach. By raising awareness and supporting access to free legal services at PWJC, we send a powerful message of hope, unity, and commitment to ending domestic violence and empowering every survivor.