The loud buzz of motorcycles fills the air in late summer as The Tribe Motorcycle Club of Seattle pulls up to kick off the SAJD Supported Living annual picnic. It’s their seventh year as the official sponsor, and each year, they provide the main entertainment for clients and staff who attend this special event.
“Not only does The Tribe add a level of fun and excitement, they also give the picnic the true feeling of a community event,” says Rachael Byer Kwong, Director of SAJD Supported Living Program. “No longer is the picnic confined as an event for people with disabilities. It’s now more inclusive and welcoming instead of segregated.”
The club was created nine years ago after founder, president and unofficial “road rabbi” Jeff Kay moved from North Virginia to Seattle. He had started a similar club back East and brought the concept with him to the Pacific Northwest. The Tribe is currently Seattle’s only Jewish motorcycle club, with approximately 20 members. They meet on the last Sunday of every month. The club is non-denominational – all motorcycle brands and Jewish practice are welcome.
“There’s really a beauty to this organization,” says Kay. “It’s a unique opportunity for comradery with other Jews. We have everyone from regular synagogue people to people that might not feel comfortable in one,” he says with a laugh.
The Tribe partnered with the SAJD Supported Living picnic at the request of a club member who is also a family member of a client. Since that time riders and their families join the picnic every year. They also bring gifts for the participants including hats, t-shirts and pins with The Tribe logo on them. Frequently, clients (without prompting from staff) will wear these gifts year after year to show their excitement and support of the club.
“We like to chit chat about motorcycles or the Seahawks, then join the group for lunch,” says Kay. “A lot of folks love to jump onto the motorcycles and take pictures too. Two or three years ago, the picnic landed in September and we brought over and built a sukkah. The rabbi said shortened versions of the blessings and guests got to go inside. It was just a really cool moment.”
Written by Leslie Sugiura
Savvy cook, extreme clam digger, urban gardener and mom to Stella the dog are just a few of the titles Leslie Sugiura keeps in rotation. She’s also the Director of Special Events for JFS where she spearheads the annual Luncheon.
Feature photo courtesy of Raymond Kwong.
