I’ve been drawn to Prolyfyck Run Creww since I first heard about it. This group of runners and walkers gathers every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, to tackle a more-than-four-mile route through Charlottesville’s historically Black neighborhoods.
Participants emphasize community over speed, representation and inclusion over individual achievement. Predawn they’re on the streets together moving, chatting, cheering each other on in a quest to change what it means to be “a runner” in this city, as this excerpt from their mission statement (see prolyfyck.com) makes clear: “Our goal is to continue shedding light on the impact of racism, both past and present, rejecting those who would suppress or co-opt the talent of Black and Brown people, claiming ownership over their creativity. Instead we encourage all to look deep within themselves to find their gifts and tap into their passions, working together with a spirit of unity and love to create a world where everyone can be prolyfyck.”
What and why
A predawn walk with Prolyfyck Run Creww because even though I don’t run anymore (wonky back), I crave the energy of communal morning workouts.
How it went
In full disclosure, I ran once before with this exhilarating group, and I walked with them on Thanksgiving. Leaders William Jones III, James “Littlez” Dowell, and Katherine (Kat) Lawrence spoke to my sports journalism class. I’ve read The New York Times piece about Jones’ vision and mission, and I’ve watched the Prolyfyck documentary. Why, then, did I continue to make excuses (too early, too cold, too creaky), when I could be out there three days a week getting strong and building community?
Maybe it’s because Prolyfyck invites you to feel things you’re not sure you want to feel, and question what you may not be willing to question. Moving with them feels like a celebration, and by the end, a party, but you work body, heart, and soul—could I commit to that challenge?
I pulled into the Jefferson School African American Heritage Center parking lot at 5:46am, muttering “early, cold, creaky,” and halfway hoping I could use the “whoops, too late” excuse. Just my luck, some friendly folks greeted me, and next thing I knew I was off, strolling toward West Main in the warm glow of veteran walker Sue’s pink LED lights.
From there it was sweet momentum in the morning streets, as I took in the sugared air wafting from Albemarle Baking Company; the dexterity with which Sue used her trash grabber to snag litter; the definition of landmarks as the sky brightened; and then—a left turn into the neighborhood surrounding Mt. Zion First African Baptist Church.
In 20 years I had walked these unfamiliar streets twice—each time with Prolyfyck. I glimpsed a flower-strewn memorial on my right. I eyed the steep hill up Lankford. I slowed. I reflected. I recognized this town’s gaps and grief. I respected the grace that invited and accompanied me there. I resolved to be worthy.
Past 10th and Page, through Westhaven, we walked and talked, acknowledging the past, meeting the present. Sue introduced me to Bernard, who waved from his porch. At the peak of the final hill, nicknamed Cold Shower, we waited, cheering, as runners sprinted to the top. Did I feel embarrassed that all I’d done was walk half of what they ran? That all I’d done was show up one morning, when these athletes do the work—creating connection to fight inequity—every day? Yep.
But Prolyfyck centers community, not self-conscious sexagenarians, and soon I was just part of the sweating, jubilant crowd making its way down West Main and back to the JSAACH parking lot. I was the last one, and they waited for me—stretching and chatting against the pink sunrise.
Jones and Dowell shared announcements and called on us to care for those hurting and struggling in our neighborhoods. Then a group photo. Laughter. Hugging. And folks headed out.
A celebration, yes, and a benediction. I’d arrived uncertain at 5:46am; I drove home euphoric at 7:15am. The question now—still—is: Can I, will I, commit?
Prolyfyck Run Creww
Meet at 5:45am to walk, 6am to run, through historically Black Charlottesville neighborhoods.
prolyfyck.com, @prolyfyckruncreww
