International Women’s Day provides an important moment to showcase commitment to gender equality. For 2021 the theme was ‘choose to challenge’ to call out gender bias and inequality.
Sadly on 4th February 2021 our founder witnessed the 10th incident of inappropriate language and behaviour towards women.
We have seen a significant increase in the number of women cycling since the pandemic. It must now be a priority to create a safe and welcoming space for women within our cycling sector so our voices and needs are listened to and respected.
So on 8th March 2021, we chose to raise awareness of sexism in cycling and we called on those in Derby’s cycling sector to pledge their commitment to call out gender bias and inequality. Collectively, we can all help to create a more diverse and inclusive cycling sector.
“i’m going to say something sexist now”
This 2 minute film captures our founder’s experience of choosing to challenge sexism in cycling in Derby, but sadly we imagine it is indicative of what many women go through.
Film created in collaboration with Hardy Saleh | www.hdsfilms.com
commit to tackling inequality
Cycling will only change if we all commit to choosing to challenge. We therefore asked staff and volunteers from Derby’s cycling organisations, members of our cycling clubs & groups, bike shops and those involved in cycling in our city to show your support by adding their names to our IWD 2021 pledge.
We particularly reached out to those who identify as male to recognise their essential role as allies in achieving gender equality.
We understand this is a learning journey for everyone so if you would like to learn more about how to take action, please find below links to useful resources on gender equality in cycling and a guide on being an effective ally.
Supporters:
Steve Johnson | British Cycling
Hardy Saleh | Derby Bike PopUp
Kate Ball | Derby Cycling Group
Andrea Haley
Active Derbyshire
Joss
Kellie Townes | Livewell
Amjad Ashraf | Community One
David Clasby
Nadine Peatfield
Becky | LifeCycle UK
Laura | Wheels to Work
Jon Hughes | LifeCycle Derby
Helen | RideWise
