Bicycling program for women finds both supporters, critics in Gaza
Despite support from the Gaza Municipality, a new program allowing young women to practice cycling has sparked controversy in conservative Gaza.
In a rare occurrence in the conservative society of the Gaza Strip, 29-year-old Palestinian Rania al-Daour launched a project she called “Breathe Deeply,” creating a space for young women in Gaza to ride bicycles. The project, which is sponsored by the Gaza Municipality, caused an uproar in the Gazan community, which views cycling as a shameful activity for young women.
On the project's opening day, April 27, in Yarmouk Stadium in the center of Gaza City, Gaza Mayor Yahya al-Sarraj said that the municipality encourages young women to practice cycling.
The project will allow young women to practice cycling inside the Yarmouk Stadium five mornings a week. The venue will be reserved for only for them during this time.
“Cycling has been my dream since my early childhood but just like many other girls, we were denied this dream because of society, which takes a dim view of women riding bicycles,” Daour told Al-Monitor.
