Lovers of the great city of Ypsilanti, we have created this petition to save the Color Run here in our city. Recently, a small group of individuals have taken to social media to try to end the Color Run here in Ypsi. Although it is a small group, we feel the need to counter with a petition to save this event. Please take the time to read our reasons and decide for yourself what is in the best interest of our community as a whole.
Let me say this, yes I agree that the Color Run is both messy and loud but so are Elvis Fest, Beer Fest and Heritage Fest. Yet we as citizens make the best of these events every year knowing that they bring thousands of people into town. Those who truly care about Ypsi and want to see it thrive are open to any event that knocks down the stereotypes and bad image we deal with on a daily basis. In recent years Ypsi has become an amazing place to live and I am proud to call it my home. Whether you were born here or not, once you live here you become part of the community (and it's a damn fine community) forever.
The anti color run folks want you to believe that this event, held on a single day for just a few hours is a huge inconvenience to the city and to traffic. They claim that residents are blocked from leaving or entering their houses. Um, NO! I lived one block away for 5 years and never had an issue getting in or out of my home. To use this as the main reason to boycott the Color Run is selfish and absurd.
They also are perpetuating lies that the dyes are toxic and are polluting our water and wildlife. While I wouldn't recommend anyone with breathing problems to attend without a mask, the dye is no more toxic than breathing gas fumes at the gas station when you pump gas. The truth is, you breathe, drink and eat worse crap on a daily basis.
As a part of this place I've called home for 20 years I have seen Ypsi at its worst. I've defended my city countless times, knowing all along that it had the potential to be great. We are on the verge of greatness and together we can, and will make Ypsilanti shine. I say NO to the selfish, asshole nay sayers who would chose to tear us down rather than build us up! Sign this petition and stand with me!
Thank you
Kimberly Anderson
