A group of female cyclists organized bike rallies across Pakistan to protest sexism, and you’re about to feel super inspired
Protests can come in all shapes and sizes, as women in Pakistan have been demonstrating. A group of female cyclists in Pakistan decided to organize an assortment of bike rallies throughout the country this weekend to raise awareness and visibility for women who ride, and we love the positive message these women presented simply by going for a bike ride on a lovely spring day.
Girls at Dhabas is the group behind these bike rallies, which took place on Sunday in Karachi, Islamabad, and Lahore. The goal behind these protests? To promote the visibility of women in public spaces.
This is a major issue in Pakistan, where it is still considered socially unacceptable for women (or anyone not obviously male) to travel unaccompanied. These woman took a strong stance against this, using their very existence to form a profound and nonviolent protest. They biked through public spaces proudly, aware that just by being there they were raising awareness and gaining attention for their cause.
These female cyclists have been active for some time, creating a community of support throughout Pakistan. But these bike rallies — an annual event — may represent their most visible form of protest. Not only are the rallies a positive and unconventional way to raise awareness, they’re a peaceful — yet powerful — protest of rules that are considered to be outdated and divisive.
By making their presence known, these women are taking a strong stance: they are out in the public eye, and they’re not going anywhere. We love what these female cyclists are doing, and can’t wait to see what they think up next!