CAHR alumnus fundraises for Cycling4Gaza

Posted on 8 November 2018

In October 2018, MA in Applied Human Rights 2015/16 alumnus Johnny Rebours took on the challenge of cycling from Boston to New York City in just four days.

Johnny Rebours, MA alumnus 2015/6, on the left in back row.

The ride was organised by Cycling4Gaza, who for an incredible 10 years have been raising money for people in Gaza with an annual cycle challenge. This 10th anniversary ride raised vital funds for three projects run by Medical Aid for Palestinians (MAP): Mental Health Support, Women's Empowerment and Protection, and Community Based Rehabilitation for people with disabilities.

"Gaza is in its 11th year of unlawful blockade, and this year has seen 198 people killed and over 23,000 people injured by excessive Israeli force towards demonstrators, often using live ammunition against unarmed people." Johnny, who works for MAP, told us. "We know that during crises it is the most vulnerable who can be forgotten about, that suffer the most, and that's why this effort by 30 riders for Cycling4Gaza is so special. In a terrible year they are standing up for women, people with mental health issues and those with disabilities."

Over four days the 30 riders from around the world put their minds and bodies to the test, arriving safely (despite some scrapes and plenty of flat tyres) at the UN building in New York. At time of writing Cycling4Gaza 2018 has raised over £110,000 for these projects, an amazing feat. However, the total budget for these projects is nearly double that so more money is still needed.

Cycling4Gaza will return again in 2019 so keep an eye out for updates and think about joining the team that stands up for Palestinians that need it most with simple pure and simple peddle-power. You can find out more about joining next years' ride, and how to donate, at Cycling4Gaza.

To learn more about MAP's work and the projects funded visit www.map.org.uk.