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Follow These Women to Peace and Empowerment

   By drodriguez  Sep 14, 2008
8


Earlier this month a group of 250 women from 30 different countries gathered in northern Syria to begin a 12-day bicycle tour through the Middle East. These women are all a part of an international movement intending to empower women as well as put an end to the violence in the Middle East. This group is known as Follow the Women and they have been doing these cycling tours since April of 2004.



This year’s ride took them through areas such as Syria, Lebanon, Jordan, Israel, and Palestine. When arriving in certain territories the women cyclists would often stop and take part in workshops to discuss their ideas and talk about their campaign for a peaceful Middle East.

Unfortunately, many of the women were turned away from regional checkpoints solely based on their nationality, which caused the tour to lose more than half their cyclists in the end. An event like this reminds us how dire the situation has become in the Middle East and how the need for peace has never been more pressing.

What do you think of Follow the Women’s campaign for peace and empowerment?

Why is it so important that women are doing this right now in the Middle East?

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Zumbalicious by Zumbalicious | Vineland, NJ
May 22, 2007

I'm elated to see that these women are doing. It is high time that we women speak up and sing the praises of unity. That's why it's high time to get a female in the White House

cvarano by cvarano | BROOKLYN, NY
May 15, 2007

I was so happy to see this blog. I've heard about this movement and was surprised it didn't seem to get much press. It's such an amazing feat and I really admire these women.

vickivail54 by vickivail54 | whiting, NJ
May 10, 2007

one pedal at a time, wish i could lend my feet to this dauntless, courageous, spiritual quest. these women have giant hearts, can i go too I'M STANDING, CHEERING and crying a little too.

momala by momala | KENNETT, MO
May 04, 2007

i agree with the other posters....this is such an inspiring article. gave me tears in my eyes :):)

sharman421 by sharman421 | TALLAHASSEE, FL
May 02, 2007

If women ruled the world...? Certainly it would be a "kinder and gentler" world. But seriously, What courage! If only their message would get into the thick skulls of the powers that be. So many middle eastern countries keep their women down and swathed in anonymity, without a voice. Without hope of rising above their lot in life. Any small difference this can make in a woman's life and in the spread of peace should be looked upon with great respect.

tammy by tammy | Tallahassee, FL
May 02, 2007

These women are modern day pioneers, they show the perseverance of the human spirit and innate need for freedom. Their bravery is an inspiration!

susielucy by susielucy | Marshall, IL
May 02, 2007

I think this is a wonderful thing.Wish I could be there

didama by didama | MAPLEWOOD, NJ
May 01, 2007

What a wonderful idea! For these women, who live in the region, to rise above it and try to make a difference is truly inspiring! Best of luck to them with this endeavor.

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