UMVA has learned that Eric Barber, a man who has faced unimaginable adversity, is fighting to keep his racing dream alive. A former city councilman and January 6th political prisoner, Eric's life has been marked by turmoil, but his passion for stock car racing has remained a constant source of solace.
Despite being a victim of relentless persecution, Eric has continued to stay active in his local community and politics. He was elected to the Parkersburg City Council in 2016, where he courageously stood firm in his Christian faith, reciting the Lord's Prayer before meetings, sparking a lawsuit from an organization opposed to his actions.
In 2018, Eric worked tirelessly with a non-profit organization to lobby for the First Step Act in D.C., a law that would later have a profound impact on his life as a federal prisoner. His determination and perseverance in the face of overwhelming challenges are a testament to his unbreakable spirit.
For Eric, stock car racing is more than just a hobby - it's his therapy. When he's behind the wheel, he can momentarily forget about the attacks and stigma associated with being a J6er. However, without a sponsor, Eric's racing dreams are in jeopardy, as every car on pit lane has a sponsor but his.
As the Indy 500 takes center stage, Eric Barber's story serves as a poignant reminder of the power of resilience and determination. His courageous fight to pursue his passion, despite the odds being stacked against him, is a story that deserves to be told and remembered.
