The impact of cycling activism and advocacy on driving change discussed at Velo-City

Participants from Instituto Aromeiazero reflect on event highlig

From June 5 to 21, the Aromeiazero Institute visited Europe to take part in Velo-city conference , a major international event dedicated to promoting urban cycling and sustainable mobility. The event, organized by the European Cyclists' Federation (ECF), typically brings together politicians, technicians, entrepreneurs, activists, and individuals interested in the subject.

The event featured intense discussions and presentations. Leaders from various sectors gathered to explore new ideas, share best practices, and drive the advancement of bicycle mobility in urban settings.

Juliana DeCastro 🏳️‍🌈 , Aro's fundraising assistant, spoke at one of the conference sessions at the invitation of the Urban Cycling Institute , addressing the profound impact of activism and cycling advocacy in promoting positive change in communities. Rogério Rai, a territorial mobilizer, attended the event with the support of the European Cyclists' Federation (ECF), the conference organizer, and visited other European countries with the support of the Fundação Tide Setubal. He focused on connecting ideas, projects, and initiatives while also expressing his gratitude for the Aromeiazero projects, which enabled opportunities like this to become a reality.

The insights shared during the conference not only highlighted the challenges that modern cities face regarding urban mobility but also offered innovative and practical solutions for improving cycling infrastructure and promoting a more sustainable and inclusive urban environment. Furthermore, several panelists reinforced the importance of robust public policies to promote urban cycling, citing examples of cities that have implemented effective measures to encourage cycling as a daily mode of transportation. Additionally, the need for educational programs that promote cyclist safety and raise awareness about the benefits of urban cycling for individuals of all age groups and social backgrounds was emphasized.

Inclusion through signage

I was impressed by the signage in the cities I visited. . They were very easy to navigate by bike or on foot - with clear information on routes, distances, tourist attractions, and traffic rules. Even if not fluent in English or the local languages, they can still feel confident in navigating the city safely..

Cycling as a tool for connection and access

The former commissioner of the New York City Department of Transportation, Janette Sadik-Khan, is well-known for her efforts in reducing car lanes and increasing space for pedestrians and cyclists. She recently spoke at the "Connecting through Cycling" opening ceremony about the idea of using bicycles as a means of connection and access. She emphasized the importance of reducing space for cars and prioritizing space for pedestrians, cyclists, and public transport. This shift can help reduce car dependency, leading to lower greenhouse gas emissions and improved urban air quality. Such initiatives are essential for making cities greener and more sustainable in the long run. She also highlighted the thought-provoking statement that "changing the street is changing the world" and emphasized the need to transform the streets before promoting bicycle usage.

Challenges of cities in countries with more inequalities

In many African cities, cycling is a crucial mode of transportation due to its accessibility and relatively low cost. . However, inadequate infrastructure and challenging traffic conditions can pose significant barriers to urban cyclists. Challenges such as the lack of proper cycling infrastructure, road safety, limited access to quality bicycles, and a predominant car culture represent significant obstacles to promoting cycling in Africa. Nevertheless, there are several successful initiatives and projects in different African countries that promote cycling as a sustainable mode of transport. These initiatives include the creation of safe cycling routes, bike-sharing programs, and educational campaigns to increase awareness of the benefits.

Inclusive Bike Parade

Bicycles adapted for people with disabilities or reduced mobility were showcased at the event. This demonstrates how to accommodate individuals with diverse needs throughout their lives, allowing them to continue using bicycles to foster connections and promote active mobility for everyone. The "Bike Wall" at Velo-city represents not only a display of bicycles, but also the transformative power of urban cycling and global unity around sustainable transportation practices. The inclusion of adapted bicycles at the event reflects the increasing societal commitment to playing a crucial role in Velo-city, serving as both a mode of transportation and a symbol of dedication to inclusion and accessibility.

Deported speakers

The speaker, Harriet Hilda Omondi, was unable to attendedthe event because she was not allowed to enter the country due to racial prejudice. There were also reports of other individuals being barred from entering Europe, despite the organizers' efforts to intervene. It is a common occurrence for black people to be deported due to a combination of migration policies, racial discrimination, and structural inequalities. The deportation of black individuals reflects broader systemic issues related to discriminatory policies, racial injustice, and structural inequalities. Addressing these challenges requires approaches that support social justice, respect for human rights, and migration policies based on principles of equity and inclusion.

100% female panel

One impactful discussion at the event was the table titled "From Research to Practice: How Can Cycling Promote Justice in Mobility?" This session focused on intersectionality, gender perspectives, and breaking down prejudices and ethnic-cultural barriers that hinder women and other minorities from cycling. The discussion also addressed issues related to harassment. This is a significant step towards achieving gender equality and ensuring everyone's right to the city. These are crucial issues on the agenda of the Aromeiazero Institute, which aims to make cities more diverse, inclusive, and safe for all.