Look Who it Was Random video

Mobility = freedom | Matt VanSlyke | TEDxUtica

2,776 views · Published 12 November 2014 · 11:58 · Indexed 27 October 2026

Channel: TEDx Talks · 2014 · Nonprofits & Activism

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This talk was given at a local TEDx event, produced independently of the TED Conferences. We live in a culture where everything we buy or own is considered to be disposable – the vast majority of the things we buy are built to be treated this way. We just kind of expect that if something breaks we’ll take it back to the store and get a new one. We rarely give consideration to where that broken one goes…out of sight, out of mind.

At Utica Bike Rescue we see things a bit differently. 

We see the value in these bikes that are sitting in people’s garages and basements – the ones that, with a bit of TLC, can be made useful again. We also recognize that many of our neighbors face challenges when it comes to personal transportation and mobility. It is often assumed that everyone can just jump in their car and get to where they need to go. But that’s not the case for everyone. Actually, there are thousands of households in the City of Utica alone with no access to a vehicle. Doctor’s offices, grocery stores, jobs and services are not always within walking distance or on a bus line. But in a city the size of Utica, nearly every corner of town is within a 10 or 20 minute bike ride. Giving people access to mobility, is also giving them access to freedom.

Matt is a community and transportation planner by education and profession – the focus of his work being on developing solutions to bicycle and pedestrian safety and mobility issues. As founder of Utica Bike Rescue, Matt recognized that without reliable, affordable transportation we face a serious disadvantage in access to employment, healthy food, education, community events and more.


About TEDx, x = independently organized event In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. At a TEDx event, TEDTalks video and live speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group. These local, self-organized events are branded TEDx, where x = independently organized TED event. The TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but individual TEDx events are self-organized.* (*Subject to certain rules and regulations)

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