Boston Marathon Tragedy through the Eyes of a Hijabi Footballer and Wannabe Runner

Like the rest of the world, I was shocked and horrified when I heard (via Twitter) about the explosions at the finish line of the Boston Marathon.

I was so stressed and immediately thought about my dear family and friends in the area. Despite warnings that cellular service was shut down I immediately started texting and calling them.

Because they are so wonderful and caring they all replied within minutes to assure me that they were safe.

My younger cousin, absolutely dashing and charming fellow whom I adore, works in downtown Boston. I called my Aunt frantically to ask about all of them. By the Grace of God Almighty, my cousin was sick today. And he stayed home. 

I have never been more thankful for a flu and fever of a family member.

I was waiting to hear back from another friend living in the area but then I was reminded she was in Mexico. 

A very close friend messaged me back to also let me know she was OK.I didn’t expect a long conversation and was so, so relieved she and her family were alright. She had been downtown with her sister and sisters children.

Over 500, 000 spectators and volunteers assemble to watch the magnificent annual race.

I thought about the kids. I thought about when my children come to cheer me on when I run a local marathon (10k) every year. 

They stand with signs and banners and scream my name as I push towards the end.

To my horror, my blackberry started going crazy when a few members of my football team started emailing to inquire about Chris.

Out teammate was running in Boston.

I texted her and her husband not expecting any reply.

It was the longest 6 minutes I have experiences in eons.

Rich texted back to say Chris was running, just finished when the bomb exploded and they they are “trying to get out of Boston”.

I thanked him and just said “Be safe”.

I started shaking uncontrollably.

Their daughter plays basketball with mine.We have spent countless hours together. Chris and I play together. She is my teammate and my friend. 

She texted me as well about 30 minutes later to say “Hi. We are both good. I felt the first bomb in my chest. it was so powerful. thanks for thinking of us”.

I sent out a short message to the rest of my team. I exhaled. Then I  went numb.

It hit me how close she was to being hurt. WHY would someone do this?

Then I got angry. I was furious. WHO DOES THIS?

These people are athletes FOR GOD’S SAKE! They come with no political agenda. No motive. They are dedicated; work and sweat for this event.  

They are surrounded by family, friends, supporters, trainers, tireless volunteers and event staff.

The incredible athletes and runners committing to 46k of arduous athletic activity.

They have trained for months; physically, mentally and emotionally.

They are drained and just exhausted at the end.

And they are met with explosions. Fire. Fear. Chaos. Injury.

WHO DOES THIS?

An eight-year old child is one of the two reported dead today. Over One hundred people injured and thousands traumatized.

Some of the runners were participating to honour the victims of the Newtown School Massacre.

I had no words. 

WHO DOES THIS?

Then I stopped. I knew who would be blamed: Muslims, Arabs and People of Colour who could be incorrectly identified as Muslims.

Poeple that could be identified and suspected to be “terrorists.”

“Terrorists” is a specific group of selected races, who will suffer, be discriminated against even though there is no concrete explanation or idea why or who did this.

I said to myself along with thousands of other people: “Please don’t be Muslim”.

Why? 

Same reason I hesitate wear a weighted vest when I train outdoors. 

Because I am a South Asian, Woman of Colour who chooses to wear hijab.

Same reason my husband is routinely stopped at the border.

He’s lived all of his years (but two) in this country as a law-abiding and full participant in Canadian society and he has a beard and kufi.

 We both fit the fearmongeror, racist and ignorant description of “terrorist”.

We are not. 

But we will be judged. 

So will our community.

So many of my friends, teachers, scholars have already tweeted, facebooked messages of support and prayers for the victims and their families.

Worst part is as a Muslim, runner and athlete although I am furious and devastated by this tragedy I will not be surprised when hate is flung my way; my community’s way.

It has already begun. 

We are programmed to feel responsible and apologize for the heinous crimes of those who do not share our values and opinions.

One of my friends wrote on his facebook regarding the suspect(s) being Muslim or not : “Does it matter? If it turns out to be a Muslim, then Islamophobes will basically have an “aha!” moment, and if it’s not a Muslim, then pundits will spend countless hours trying to figure out what kind of deep psychological disorder would lead a person to commit an act so barbaric that they might as well be a Muslim.”

It feels so frustrating that it may be a ‘lose-lose’ situation. For innocent people, for different communities and for sport.

There are also people who remind us of similar atrocities around the world. Today in Iraq a bomb killed 42 people.

When we read comments such as “This happens in Iraq, Afghanistan, Syria and Palestine all the time” it is not to diminish the severity and loss of this act of violence.

For me it is a cognizance that I am privileged. I am strong enough and able to say that this is wrong. And I want no part of this violence identifying me, my family and my beliefs.

Also a reminder that Muslims have acts of terror committed against them.

Muslims are part of Boston.

Muslim also run marathons.

I am constantly reminded how lucky I am to be able to play football freely, to run publicly without fear of danger.

I am so grateful so be safe. 

The stress and anxiety I felt trying to contact friends today was unbearable.

To live in that stress all the time is unimaginable.

And it happens to many innocent people around the world. Daily.

The Boston Marathon is an event that should inspire people. 

That united people of different religions and races together.

They are vulnerable, terrified and in shock.

Bostonians are warm-hearted, generous and kind. They have opened their homes and offered to help in any way possible. Shelters, places of worship and crisis centers are offering any type of assistance. Even to use the bathroom or make a phone call.

Emergency services responded in a manner most honourable and courageous. 

Whoever is responsible for this will undoubtedly be punished. 

But may that process of “American Justice” not oppress and be misguided and blinded by hate, fury and racism.

And more than anything “Please don’t be Muslim” also translates to “May my rights not be stripped, disregarded and ignored”.

That in itself is terrifying. 

May the people of Boston recover from this nightmare. 

May their efforts to recover be supported and respected.

May they be lauded for reacting with generosity and kindness and concern for strangers. 

And may we all run in safety and security. 

Our Prayers are with the Victims of Boston Marathon

By FT reporters

At least two people were killed and more than 20 were injured, some seriously, as two explosions rocked the Boston Marathon finishing line on Monday, as hundreds of thousands of people thronged the city’s streets for the race.

Onlookers posted pictures on Twitter showing blood on sidewalks beside the finishing line on Boylston Street in the city centre, with people lying on the ground. According to local media, emergency personnel carried out a controlled detonation of a suspicious package afterwards.

Shortly after the explosion, workers speaking over the Boston city emergency radio system expressed fears about suspect packages near the scene and an unaccompanied vehicle. They asked for all police officers not needed on Boylston Street to go into side streets in case of further explosions.

“We need the ambulances off Boylston,” the person said. “Officers, go down side streets, away from harm’s way. There are several suspect packages still on Boylston.”

The route of the marathon runs through Boston area universities, and for large sections of the race students were standing four-deep to watch the runners. Officials were deciding whether to lock down the universities and were encouraging students to clear the streets.

Emergency personnel ushered spectators and runners into stores and restaurants lining the route. They were later guided out through back alleys. One worker who was heard on Boston’s emergency channels said his staff were sweeping the area for suspicious packages.

Boston had been enjoying a state holiday with schools and government offices closed.

President Barack Obama was being kept aware of the situation, White House officials said, as security was tightened in other US cities. The area in front of the White House was also cleared, according to a report on CNN.

Paul J Browne, Deputy Commission​er at New York City Police Department, said: “We’re stepping up security at hotels and other prominent locations in the city through deployment of the NYPD’s critical response vehicles until more about the explosion is learnt.”

Adriana Piekarewicz, a runner from Tallahassee, Florida, completed the race and was at the nearby Fairmont Copley Plaza hotel. She described hearing two explosions just before 3pm eastern time and shortly afterwards seeing people with severe injuries at the finish line.

She said within 15 minutes the Fairmont Copley hotel was locked down and people were not permitted to leave it.

One woman visiting Boston from London with her husband, who was competing, was just about to cross the finish line when windows blew out from the explosion.

“There have been horrific injuries and he was very lucky to have escaped it,” she said.

A White House official said that, shortly after being notified of the incident around 3pm eastern time, President Obama had received a briefing from Lisa Monaco, his Homeland Security adviser, and other members of his senior White House staff.

“The President called Boston Mayor Tom Menino and Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick to express his concern for those who were injured and to make clear that his administration is ready to provide needed support as they respond to the incident,” the official said.

People were being evacuated from the scene by foot on a bridge across Massachusetts Avenue, local media reported. Individual runners’ belongings, stored near the finish line, were having to be searched to ensure they contained nothing suspicious, they also reported.

Reporting by Robert Wright, Arash Massoudi, Johanna Kassel, Kara Scannell and Anjli Raval

Source: http://www.ft.com/cms/s/0/3891e354-a600-11e2-b7dc-00144feabdc0.html#axzz2QZJi6Fzl

Muslim women kick new AFL goal

Lael Kassem, captain of the Auburn Tigers. Picture: Mitch Cameron Source: The Sunday Telegraph

THEY are the Muslim women using sport to smash cultural stereotypes - just don't ask them who Adam Goodes is.

The Auburn Tigers are the first predominantly Muslim women's AFL team in the country, and although they admit to not knowing much about Aussie rules, that hasn't stopped them using the sport to build cultural awareness.

The team suffered a 130-0 loss to Macquarie University yesterday, but captain Lael Kassem said they want much more than to just put points on the scoreboard.

Ms Kassem, 21, from Auburn, said: "Sport can change everyone's lives and it has done that for so many of our girls.

"When we started the team we didn't think about winning.

"We just wanted to be the most respected team and the most culturally aware team."

Ms Kassem said many of the women had never watched a game of football live or even seen stars such as Sydney Swans player Goodes on TV.

The Muslim team members respect their religion by wearing the traditional head scarf and cover their limbs when they step out on the field.

"The majority of the girls in our team wear the Islamic veil and they can wear tracksuits if that makes them more comfortable," Ms Kassem said.

"We enforce that we are representing our religion so we go on to the field with the best manners and demonstrate Muslims are normal."

Source: http://www.heraldsun.com.au/news/national/muslim-women-kick-new-afl-goal/story-fndo317g-1226619890600

Ayatollah Khameini Praises Iranian Female Athletes for Wearing Hijab in Sports Fields

Supreme Leader Praises Iranian Female  Athletes for Wearing Hijab in Sports Fields TEHRAN (FNA)- Supreme Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyed  Ali Khamenei lauded Iran's female athletes  for respecting the Islamic code of dressing  (Hijab) in sports arenas.

"The presence of sports women and girls who respect  Hijab in international arenas is an extraordinary,  highly important and valuable action," Ayatollah Khamenei said in a meeting with Iranian athletes in Tehran on Monday. The leader further lamented the growing number of threats posed to Muslim women in Europe, and said "Under such conditions, when a Muslim  Iranian woman who is wearing Hijab becomes a  champion and makes everyone to bow to  her, a great thing has been done," he added. "All people should appreciate the sportswomen  who show up in international sports arenas with  Hijab, grace and poise," Ayatollah Khamenei underlined. Ayatollah Khamenei has always lauded the efforts made by Iranian and Muslim women throughout the history to safeguard the logical and religious values of their societies. "Iranian women protect their families and play  significant roles in political and social events," Ayatollah Khamenei said in a message to the Congress on 7,000 Women Martyrs of  wartime earlier this month. The Supreme Leader also said that role and status of Muslim women throughout history are very prominent.  article via http://english.farsnews.com/newstext.php?nn=9107152106 Some pics of inspiring Iranian female athletes

Fifa-Approved Hijab Now Available

BY:SHIREEN AHMED

I missed my football match tonight. It’s the first Thursday in seven months of our indoor season that I have not played- due to ligament injury. As I lay icing and compressing- I had the most cathartic experience. 

In my email account I received the MOST EXCITING e-mail.

An email that I have been hoping for and dreaming about for years.

It was from the office of ResportOn. The Sports Hijab Company based in Montreal,Canada that designed the model Pro Release: the first FIFA approved hijab .

I, and thousands of Muslimah footballers, have waited for this moment. 

A time when a product that is affordable ($60) and available in a variety of colours and is recognized, accepted and APPROVED by the International Football Association Board (IFAB).

“Salamaleikoum dear sister,

We are proud to announce the official launch of the ResportOn Pro Release! 

Choose your colors

Be the first one to choose your colors! We have a variety of colors that will certainly fit your style and needs.

Fits for all sport, approved for Football

The Pro Release is suitable for many sports. The great news for football players is that the Pro Release design is approved by FIFA!

Get yours today

Since you reserved a Pro Release, you can directly purchase yours on our online store. If you don’t purchase it right away, your reservation will last for 10 days.

Order for your team and save

If you are part of a sport’s team, or have friends interested in purchasing the Pro Release, contact us directly to have information on our special promotion for teams. You’ll save on the garment and on the shipping!

Please feel free to contact me, if you have any further inquiries or comments.

Wassalam”

Efforts on the part of ResportOn have also lead to convincing some regional 

Soccer Federations in Canada, who were most reluctant, to allow hijabs on the pitch as part of a proper uniform.

I may not be able to play for a few weeks  but I can’t wait to get back on the pitch with my FIFA-approved hijab.

I won’t be challenged, restricted or denied to play. Neither will thousands of women. 

ProRelease is not only part of a football kit but also an incredible symbol of inclusion, ability and potential.

Reminding the world that football is for all of us.

Muslim-Friendly Gyms Divide Germany

The subject of how to treat Muslim school children when it comes to sport instruction is becoming an election topic.

CAIRO – German Chancellor Angela Merkel waded in a new controversy on Saturday, April 6, rejecting the idea of separate sport classes for Muslim girls and boys as sending a wrong signal on the country's “integration,” The Local newspaper reported.

“Integration is very important to the chancellor,” Georg Streiter, a government spokesman, told Rheinische Post newspaper.

“People being separated from one another is the opposite of integration,” he said.

The subject of how to treat Muslim school children when it comes to sport instruction is becoming an election topic.

The issue was raised when Peer Steinbrück, Merkel’s Social Democratic Party opponent in the September national vote, waded into what in the past has been a hornet's nest of controversy in Germany.

In comments given earlier this week, he expressed support for physical education classes in German schools to be divided by gender.

"If schools are able to do it, then they should," Steinbrück said in response to a question from the audience during a campaign appearance in Berlin, Der Spiegel reported.

A Reuters reporter noted that the comment was greeted with silence.

Steinbrück then added that the step should be taken "out of consideration for religious convictions."

Germany is believed to be home to nearly 4 million Muslims, including 220,000 in Berlin alone.

The country is Europe's second-biggest Muslim population after France, and Islam comes third in Germany after Protestant and Catholic Christianity.

Germans have grown hostile to the Muslim presence recently, with a heated debate on the Muslim immigration into the country.

A recent poll by the Munster University found that Germans view Muslims more negatively than their European neighbors.

In August 2011, Germany’s daily Der Spiegel had warned that the country is becoming intolerant towards its Muslim minority.

Opposition Chorus

Supporting Merkel’s attitude, Barbara John, formerly in charge of integration issues for the city-state of Berlin, joined the debade.

“Children and parents have to get used to the fact that genders here grow up together and live with the same rights," she told the newspaper Bild.

She was seconded by Serkan Tören, a member of the federal parliament with the Free Democrats, Merkel's junior coalition partner.

Tören, himself from Turkey, said that "dividing boys and girls is akin to dividing society.”

“Splitting classes by gender is also the wrong signal to send when it comes to integrating Muslims in Germany,” he added.

Even the Greens, ostensibly the SPD's allies in the campaign, have distanced themselves when Memet Kilic, a member of parliament and the Green's expert on integration issues, said that current rules governing physical education classes should not be changed.

Facing growing opposition, Steinbrück defended his statements while on a trip to Paris, saying he was not going to go back on what he said.

“Many Muslim parents solve the problem of sport instruction by calling their children in sick,” he told the Focus magazine.

“That also cannot be the solution.”

SPD General Secretary Andrea Nahles has also supported Steinbrück, noting that in her state of Rhineland-Pfalz the separation of the sexes for sport instruction “has long been the norm and takes place without a problem if the schools can organizationally deal with it and they want that.”

Source: http://www.onislam.net/english/news/europe/462116-muslim-friendly-gyms-divide-germany.html

Muslim Women Kick Goals

By Amna K-Hassan

This article is part of the March theme of rightnow.org.au, Sport and Human Rights. It’s also part of a series of articles looking specifically at the role of women in sport.

IMAGE COURTESY: AMNA K-HASSAN

“Football doesn’t build character, it reveals it.” This was the inscription on the medallion given to every player at the end of our 2012 AFL footy season.

In my faith, there is a legacy of strong women who excelled in their own right. They were scholars such as Aisha bint Abu Bakr, businesswomen such as Khadija (who was also the first wife of the Prophet Muhammad peace be upon him and his employer) and warriors, such as Khawla.

These stories are part of a larger collection of women’s narratives that inform my decision-making process. These stories motivate me to also be a woman who leaves a legacy to inspire others.

I believe God has been watching over me as I live out my destiny in every aspect of my life.

The first time I participated in Aussie Rules was for a Harmony Day demo game and it was exhilarating (not to mention we played modified rules with no tackling)!

One of the co-founders of the local men’s team suggested I start up a women’s team and join the club. I had already played a trial game, how different could it be?

In October 2010, I messaged all the females in my phone contacts list. I didn’t let the perception of each friend influence whether I clicked send or not – even though I was thinking no way, Barbie doll, princess, strict parents, too conservative, and the list goes on.

I was amazed at how many women came to training. There was no shortage of interest. We had an average of 40 girls at training twice a week. Lael Kassem (our trainer, coach and the only person who knew the rules) had to go back to basics because the majority of girls had given up on engaging in physical activity. Some of them hadn’t participated in school sporting activities and conveniently menstruated weekly or felt sick. Parents had restricted others, and some came for social reasons with friends.

After a great first year the women’s team returned for what we hoped would be a great experience. Unlike our first year, the second year was turbulent.

…[my critics] could not reconcile the dynamism of Islam that I discovered with their sexist attitudes disguised as concern for their “sister” in faith.

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “The religion is easy, do not make it difficult,” and yet I struggled with men who challenged me with religious arguments and cultural stigma. It sent me on a consultative journey for answers from religious leaders (Imams), community leaders, my mentors, and my heart.

I sought out English-speaking Imams with an understanding of the Australian context and classical Islamic education. I spoke to Imams from the main schools of thought in Islam.

Engaging the Imams proved to be a thought-provoking process. I went with a straightforward question: “Is it prohibited for Muslim women to engage in outdoor sport, namely Aussie Rules?” I learnt that Islam offers a host of views on this issue. Each Imam provided me with the tools for how they derived the opinion they gave me.

One of these Islamic legal concepts was Maslaha (public interest). If what we do brings benefit to the community and removes the participants from time-wasting behaviour or negative circles of influence, it is better to have this alternative than to have nothing (even if the situation is not ideal).

A significant benefit was creating a platform for women who felt isolated from the mosque and religiously observant community. The team became a means to discover their cultural, spiritual and social identity.

Another consideration was restricting the interaction with men. This is due to the Imams concern with preservation of modesty, dignity and honour. There were also considerations of women from various ethnic communities and the possibility of cultural disgrace associated with casually interacting with men. We play in a women’s league, which removes half of the obstacle. The uncontrolled variables are male spectators; however, in community club sports spectators are minimal.

…the Imams I consulted left their answer open and allowed me to make the decision. They provided me with the guidelines so that I was better positioned to make a conscious choice.

There were also concerns around whether we can wear modest clothing in compliance with Islam. This applied to women who choose to wear the headscarf (hijab) and women who do not.

Another Imam was more concerned with the type of sport we play, as Aussie Rules is a contact sport. Being tackled and contesting for the ball means we may end up in all sorts of positions on the ground and he was concerned about safeguarding the integrity of the participants.

Although there was a diversity of opinions, the Imams I consulted left their answer open and allowed me to make the decision. They provided me with the guidelines so that I was better positioned to make a conscious choice.

Community leaders, friends and mentors were supportive and advised me to ignore armchair critics. When I shared my learning from the Imams, they stated that these guidelines are not restricted to women; rather the same principles apply to men as well.

The diversity of viewpoints encouraged me to think about the moral dilemmas of playing contact sport. I was more concerned with the impact on the state of my heart. Playing a contact sport can be very exhilarating and it arouses a desire to be aggressive (tackle, contest and “hip and bump”) towards the opposition. I questioned whether the internal motivation changed from its original intention and at some point as players we intend to harm another human rather than fairly play the game.

I also realised in my year of difficulty that my tongue manifested the ugliness of the hurt in my heart. Unfortunately, I think this had a wider impact on the participants and I felt we became less concerned with maintaining the highest standard of etiquette and manners. It was in our club culture to have the courage to be patient when another does wrong by one of us. Virtue of the tongue when emotional and sincerity of the heart when hurt are a constant struggle. Playing contact sport is a weekly test of character.

Despite informing my critics of the wisdom of those Imams that I had consulted, they could not reconcile the dynamism of Islam that I discovered with their sexist attitudes disguised as concern for their “sister” in faith.

They narrowly interpreted the religion and relied on bad cultural elements to justify taking away the right of choice to participate. I find this manipulative and it highlights the issue is not with women, but it is with patriarchal men.

In every difficulty there is a blessing and after every hardship comes ease (Quran 94:5).

Despite 2012 being a difficult year, it challenged me to seek answers and that in itself was a blessing. It started conversations on the ethical, moral and spiritual dilemmas for women who play outdoor sport. It also revealed there is a need to create opportunities for women who prefer to participate in more intimate settings.

Founding the club independently of the men in 2013 has been a time-consuming task. The AFL has been supportive and the women who volunteer have worked tirelessly to establish the foundation. We are still working, learning and evolving. I am constantly questioning if we are sticking to the guidelines offered by those I consulted and continue on my journey to seek guidance.

My faith is one of beauty and diversity. There is flexibility in my faith for women to play sport and remain devoted to using religious principles as a moral compass.

Despite the diverse theological influences and cultural differences between the players, they share their love for the game and for the sisterhood. They also share the passion to make a difference for women who have been lumped into a narrative prescribed for them by patriarchy and systemic oppression, justified by misusing culture and misinterpreting religion.

Islam is a religion of pluralism and our choice to participate is not a deviant innovation. Rather, it is a perversion of the faith to simply render Islam as a black and white canvas with only one way of doing things. My faith is one of beauty and diversity. There is flexibility in my faith for women to play sport and remain devoted to using religious principles as a moral compass.

I found my answers in the Islamic faith. The vastness of the faith has strong principles and one of them is to honour and protect women. This does not translate to “make decisions for them because they are incapable of using their intellect and owning their opinions”. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) introduced unprecedented rights for women. It is unfortunate that globally, women are still having the most basic conversation about their right to participate in society. I believe men are crucial advocates and agents for upholding the rights of women.

“Consult your heart. Righteousness is about which the soul feels tranquil and the heart feels tranquil…” Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).

The most meaningful consultation is with my heart. Seeking guidance doesn’t restrict me to obeying the instruction of others. Ultimately, I am accountable for my actions.

I witness players grow as they travel the roads of their hearts and minds. For some, it has been a life changing experience. It gives them a sisterhood and a safe place to explore their identity, struggles with their self (image, worth and esteem), improve their discipline, explore their faith and connect with their inner strength.

This team by no means is restricted to Muslim women; part of the learning and development has been the intercultural and interfaith experiences on and off the field. Beyond the curious conversations about fasting in Ramadan while playing footy in the heat while wearing hijab, the women converse about daily life (work, study, family, dreams) and their perspectives on contemporary issues.

As the women on the team nervously step onto the field for the first time, thoughts of uncertainty, confusion and doubt of capability will naturally run through their minds. I am certain by the time they come off the field at the end of the season, thoughts of triumph, courage, confidence and sense of achievement will be felt.

It’s more than footy – it’s about faith, freedom and family.

Thank you to my friends who contributed by reading and editing this article. A special thanks to Crescent Wealth Investments and local restaurant Hawa Charcoal Chicken who support our dream by committing to sponsor the Auburn Tigers Women’s Team for the next three years.

Amna K-Hassan is a 24-year-old passionate advocate for young people and women’s rights. She is the cofounder of the Auburn Tigers Women’s Club. Amna works for the Australian Federal Police Community Liaison Team.

Source: http://rightnow.org.au/writing-cat/feature/muslim-women-kick-goals-2/

Saudi Arabia To Allow Women to Ride Bikes...for fun only.

BY: SHIREEN AHMED

Saudi Arabia has made more progress in women’s participation in athletics. This week they allowed Women’s Sports clubs despite previous concerns of girls exercising, potentially tearing their hymens.  

That Saudi women will be allowed to ride bicycles and motorbikes is fascinating and perhaps a sign of softening their conservative expectations of women’s behaviour and activity in public.

That female riders be modestly dressed and accompanied by a male relative is a requirement.

Could this be a step towards driving perhaps? Increased mobility and public exposure of women moving themselves, so to speak.

Furthermore, the bikes may only be used for entertainment purpose in park and not for, um, transportation. Yes, seriously.

I’m sure that getting from point A to point B for entertainment and pleasure only is exactly what the women riders are looking forward to.

Regardless of what triggered this new development in Saudi society, I look forward to seeing many women hit the road...for fun.
I wonder if helmets are a requirement...

Critical Mass anyone?

.

More on this story and the reactions from Saudi Arabia: http://stream.aljazeera.com/story/201304022007-0022651