Running Down the Walls (RDTW) is an annual 5K organized by the Anarchist Black Cross Federation (ABCF). This powerful community-driven event promotes awareness about political prisoners and prisoners of war in the United States, and fundraises for their essential needs.

RDTW is deeply rooted in solidarity: while community members take part outside, prisoners participate from within correctional facilities. Onlookers gather to cheer-on the self-described “non-competitive 5K run/jog/walk/roll.”

The first RDTW took place in 1999. Since then, it has blossomed into an established tradition occurring annually in multiple cities across the country. Funds raised through the event are directed to vital initiatives supporting incarcerated persons – primarily ABCF Warchest, a program founded in 1994 to aid political prisoners. Since its establishment, the ABC Warchest has distributed over $200,000 directly to incarcerated individuals. The funds cover commissary expenses, medical costs, and other necessities unfulfilled by the American prison-industrial complex.

In 2025, RDTW is scheduled for September 21st. Confirmed participating cities include Eugene, Portland (OR), Los Angeles, New York City, Chicago, and Miami.

Cities frequently adapt their events to include public talks or community meals – or even fitness challenges, like Southern California’s Pushing Down the Walls! All proceeds are distributed in support of political prisoners through the Warchest and local allocations.

We encourage you to consider participating in your local run – you can find out more at the following links!

https://www.abcf.net/rdtw/
https://www.anarchistnews.org/index.php/content/running-down-walls-2025

At CLDC, we maintain ongoing relationships with our incarcerated clients, providing legal support while they navigate the prison system. We also encourage readers to remain informed about the critical support needs of CLDC’s former/current clients Marius Mason and Malik Muhammad, whose cases remind us why consistent solidarity matters.