08/03/2024
- Empower A Woman - Empower a Community -
This past week we’ve been confronting the harsh reality of women’s safety and the lack of fear of the law in this country, when we heard about Fernanda, a renowned Brazilian world traveller on motorcycle was gang-raped by 8 men in Dumka, Jharkhand while she was camping with her husband Vincente - who was also brutally beat up by those men. We as a country are deeply ashamed and hope that those criminals are severely punished and brutalised. Though as per the last update the 8 criminals have been caught, this horrific incident has shaken us all up especially in the Indian biker community and served a powerful reminder that the journey to women’s safety and true empowerment, no matter the era we’re living in - is still long and arduous. Fernanda’s bravery to speak up and continue marching on towards justice is an example set in stone not only for all the women out there who ever go through anything similar - but to society as a whole to come together in support of women and make sure their voices are heard everywhere and criminals are brought to justice. We are grateful today to have examples of women like Urvashi, Candida, Maral and Joe - from the Indian biking community, who were so instrumental in making sure Fernanda got the voice and support she needed. Our salute and deepest respects to these women - always.
There is something in our system so deeply rotten for such incidents to be repeatedly taking place which goes to show the lack of fear such men have and also how rampant the ugly phenomenon of victim blaming/shaming still is. While each of us demand severe/capital punishment or castration for such criminals, let us also not forget that empowerment starts from home. We all must do our part in speaking up against sexist, misogynistic and patriarchal views held by people in our direct environment, be it our home, friend circle or work environment - regardless of your gender. The impact of refraining from demeaning and sexist remarks, jokes etc about women is profound, as each individual's choice contributes to shaping our society's mindset. By promoting respectful language and attitudes, we without a doubt collectively foster an environment that supports women empowerment. This ripple effect influences perceptions, helps break down gender stereotypes, and creates a culture where girls and women everywhere are valued, respected, and empowered to thrive. It's a small yet powerful step towards a more inclusive and egalitarian society.
Our motorcycling academy was founded 9 years back - primarily to empower women through learning how to be independent motorcyclists. We wanted motorcycling to be a powerful expression of this independence as much as an important skill for women to learn.
So for us, celebrating this day is only meaningful when every people, no matter where they’re from, no matter the age or gender - through awareness and education, join hands to dismantle the chains of which is still deep rooted in societies around the world, not just India, and is disruptive towards any progress and equality in this world.
We all bear the responsibility as a society to ensure that our words and actions are responsible, and we work together so that women can ride freely, not just on motorcycles, but through life and can make choices without fear.
We urge you all to with Fernanda and every girl, every woman out there, who strives for a world where every day is Women's Day – where they feel free, safe, empowered and respected.
