With the Walk21 Conference in town next week, New York City will be the focus of this year’s Walk to School Day, and we want New York kids to benefit. To help out, Livable Streets Education is organizing a project to celebrate walking in schools: We’re Walking Here NYC.

As you already know, most Americans don’t get around much by walking. A recent New York Times article reminded us that only 13 percent of kids in America walk to school. In contrast, New Yorkers, including New York City kids, walk much more than the average American. Many New York City kids walk to school each day — whether they live a few blocks away, or walk themselves to the bus or train. In short, our walking habits can be a model for the rest of the country.

Livable Streets Education, NYC DOT, Walk21, and the National Center for Safe Routes to School will be co-hosting a free citywide event at Washington Square Park on Walk to School Day, October 7, from 1-2 p.m. Fun activities have been planned for K-12 students, focusing on green and healthy lifestyles. World-famous beatboxer Rahzel (a former member of The Roots) will be performing live, and international leaders will speak on active communities and urban livability.