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Big Ride to celebrate the UN Assembly’s support for Palestine.

The AFOPA Big Ride for Palestine SA bike riding group is planning to build on the success of the inaugural ride which was held recently on Sunday 28th April. The group has planned two escorted rides, on Sundays 26 May and June 30. Each ride will assemble at 8:30 am for a 9:00am departure from the southern end of Victoria Square and ride to Glenelg.

Why do we ride?

We will ride specifically to celebrate the recent decision by the UN General Assembly’s to begin the process of recognising Palestine as a State.

The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) has backed a Palestinian bid to become a full UN member. This bid must be referred to the UN Security Council, and the UNGA in doing so has recommended the US does not veto the proposal when it is considered by the Security Council.

The UNGA overwhelmingly adopted a resolution on Friday 9 May with 143 votes in favour and nine against – including the US and Israel – while 25 countries abstained. It does not give the Palestinians full UN membership, but simply recognises them as qualified to join and gives them limited rights at the Assembly.

The Palestinian push for full UN membership comes seven months into the Israeli genocidal war on the Gaza Strip, and as Israel is expanding illegal settlements in the occupied West Bank.

It is an important milestone for Palestine for achieving status in the world arena.

How does riding help the Palestinians?

The overwhelming support for Palestinian statehood has come after years and months of pressure from people like ourselves all over the world, demonstrating in cities and towns, lobbying their politicians, taking direct action in schools and universities and by boycotting Israeli products and services.

These small concerted actions, incrementally add up to overwhelming pressure. Our rides help build awareness in the public of the plight of Palestinians struggling against apartheid, repression and genocidal military attacks by Israel that have increased since October 2023.

Put these dates in your diaries. Check your bike. Pump up your tyres and oil your chain. Bring your friends along and support Palestine in a practical and healthy way.

Sunday 12 May 2024

Members of the Big Ride for Palestine Group Adelaide visit the Adelaide University Student Gaza Encampment.

Big Ride for Palestine SA Inaugural Ride

All photos by Aussie Kanck, with thanks

Sunday 28 April 2024

Today an enthusiastic and varied group of 44 people participated in the inaugural ride for the AFOPA - APHEDA Big Ride for Palestine SA group.

The eclectic group varied in age and ability, in their choice of bikes and riding attire but were united in the common purpose of shining a spotlight on the human suffering that the State of Israel, its leadership and military forces are perpetrating in front of the world’s eyes.

The group assembled on the chilly banks of the River Torrens at Elder Park and dedicated their ride from the River Torrens to the sea at Glenelg, to the traditional Kaurna custodians of the Adelaide Plains and in solidarity with the Palestinians in their struggle to end the genocide and achieve recognition for the state of Palestine.

The group rode up King William Street and through the city, joining Anzac Highway and eventually ending at Wrigley Reserve, Glenelg where AFOPA spokesperson, Mike Khizam addressed the group and applauded their efforts in combining a love of cycling with a practical demonstration of solidarity.

Group members shared coffee and chat at Wrigley Reserve, expressing support for proposed future rides, campaigns and fund raising efforts, such as the planned Walk, Run and Ride for Palestine on October 13 this year. Many locals joined in conversation with the riders, expressing support for the Ride for Palestine and there were plenty of beeps of support from drivers as the group progressed along Anzac Highway.

Many thanks are extended to the Ride marshalls, many of whom are AFOPA members, (including Donald Barnes, Gregg Ryan, Chris Yiallouros, Les Birch, Terry Grealy) who ensured a safe and enjoyable ride experience while also sharing safe riding and mechanical tips with participants.

Keep an eye on this blog for notification of the next planned ride in late May.

Queries: CONTACT secretary@afopa.com.au