FREEDOM #75 Bike is symbol of freedom

I am watching a film Wadjda (a Saudi-German co-production) by Haifaa Al-Mansour first feature film from Saudi Arabia by the country first female filmmaker. Haifaa al-Mansour is one of the country's best-known and most controversial directors, and the first female Saudi filmmaker. Her father was a poet and she studied literature and film in Cairo and Sydney. Wadjda longs for a bike, symbol of freedom. Mother longs for a fancy red Western-style dress in the hope of impressing the father of Wadjda.

Cycling for girls & women is prohibited in Saudi Arabia? I collided with an ice cream truck on bicycle with high heels 13 years ago. And I could not imagine as 15 years old school girl that I sell mixtapes, hand-braiding bracelets for classmates like Wadjda in the movie. I thought kids are not allowed to sell anything at school except the young lady at the snack bar. I thought selling is for adults. Not in Saudi Arabia. One point for them vs. Western countries.

I cycled to the editor office as young journalist. Choosing for bicycle was logical; the office is in the city center. I was 21. When I collided with an ice cream truck, I got back on the bike and I crossed the road. As I reached the other side, I lost my consciousness and I collapsed. The short blackout came exactly after that moment I reached the other side. Two girls my age immediately came over to ask how I feel and whether they should call an ambulance. I walked home with few scratches. I got off light. I thought high heels are business-casual dresscode. Since that instead of cycling I walk in high heels. Not a better solution but at least I practice walking. Best: high heels in backpack, sneakers on!
Proper Dress for a Receptionist/ Journalist - The most desirable shoe materials for receptionists are leather, dark fabrics and microfiber. Avoid slippers, sandals and spike heels. Conservative dress excludes open toes, chunky heels and platform shoes. Use a moderation of common sense when selecting shoes by ensuring that you are able to walk in them comfortably. - Chance Henson says. https://www.leaf.tv/articles/proper-dress-for-a-receptionist/

Women in Saudi Arabia can now ride bicycles in public, but officials are saying “only for entertainment.” - Time Magazine says in spring 2013. 

Try @VanMoof smart bike. #SafetyFirst


VanMoof #SafetyFirst

Wadjda longs for a bike, symbol of freedom.

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