At 10:30am on the 20th of March 2010, people assembled outside the Forest Cafe in Edinburgh to take part in a sponsored cycle ride from Edinburgh to North Berwick. The purpose of the cycle ride was to raise money to support The Revolutionary Association of the Women of Afghanistan (RAWA).
RAWA is a social/political group that has been struggling for peace, freedom, democracy and women's rights in Afghanistan since 1977. RAWA's work includes running schools for girls, organising demonstrations demanding human rights, and supporting victims of war and violence. They also distribute food and health care to the many hungry and sick people throughout Afghanistan. The Edinburgh based group “RAWA Solidarity Scotland,” was created in early 2009 to offer practical solidarity to RAWA in the form of awareness raising and generating much needed funds.
The sponsored bike ride began cheerfully with the distribution of tasty home made sandwiches and flapjacks. Each participant was also given a high-viz jacket with a RAWA image on the back, and a flag to attach to their bicycle. The route was checked over one last time and we were ready to go!
At 11am sharp the group departed and set off on the road to North Berwick, 22 miles away. Around 20 people took part in the ride, and the easy going pace meant that people with a range of cycling abilities were able to take part. The beautiful weather and addition of a tandem bike to the group, added to the friendly and light hearted atmosphere.
In Aberlady the group stopped for lunch for about an hour. Many people had brought food to share, and this made it more difficult to get up and cycle again afterwards!
The group reached North Berwick at around 3:00 pm. The seaside town in East Lothian was the perfect location for a well earned rest and some bike maintenance!
The cycle ride was a great success, and it is estimated that as well as creating a visual spectacle, nearly £500 was raised for RAWA as a result.
If you would like to read more about RAWA, see their official website: www.rawa.org
To find out more about RAWA Solidarity Scotland and get involved see: www.rawascotland.org.uk
