Local lowrider owners celebrate new ordinance against ‘cruising’ bans
In the east valley, the lowrider scene stands strong just like religion.
“My dad came home once with an Impala 59 and since I saw that car, I fell in love with them," said Lupe Gonzalez, a local lowrider owner.
The modified classic cars defy gravity hopping up and down. They’re works of art that under the bright sun their chrome rims and color shine brightly.
“They come out with their families, we go to the car shows, it’s become a family event," said lowrider owner Richard Romero.
They're more than just cars, they're an expression of artistry, identity, a bridge between two cultures. But for decades cruising or riding them was prohibited in many cities across the state.
“There’s a stigma that lowrider drivers are gang members, drug addicts, but that’s not the case, their business, owners, I personally go to church,” Gonzalez said.
Today, these lowrider club members are excited about the new law that just took effect.
Assembly Bill 436 allows them to ride down the street legally and prohibits the creation of local ordinances from banning it.
“We’re good people, we can go on the street, we follow the law, stop at red lights," Romero said.
“We drive slow, we’re not dangerous, my car is very expensive. I take care of it, I don’t want to endanger other cars," Gonzalez said.
They say the law is also an acknowledgment and acceptance of their way of life.
“We built these cars with a lot of sacrifice,” Gonzalez said.
As they continue to change the perception many have of lowriding, they say this is a big step in ensuring their tradition continues with the next generation.
“A lot of kids look at these cars love them, and with this, it's a good example that it’s ok,” said Roger Morales, a lowrider owner.
