Walk Ride GM is horrified by the news of a hate crime against Klaudia Mitura on the Ashton Canal.
There is no excuse for violence, including this example of male violence against women.
Incidents like this are made more likely by a widespread press and media bias against cyclists. Language inciting hate and violence towards people cycling is normalised – language which would be completely unacceptable to use about other groups. The attack on Klaudia comes only months after disgusting comments made by local MP Andrew Gwynne.
The risk of incidents like this is increased by a ‘cycle network’ reliant on shared-use canal towpaths and narrow, poorly lit routes out of sight of roads. Women should be safe everywhere – and deserve to have the option of wide pavements and protected cycleways on roads like Hyde Road and Ashton New Road.
Evidence shows more women cycle when our highways and public spaces are designed with women’s perspectives and lifestyles at the forefront, including ‘trip-chaining’ between various destinations.
At Walk Ride GM, we’ve had enough. If you would like to join Walk Ride GM’s working group to campaign on this issue, please contact us at hello@walkridegm.org.uk.
Read more about our demands for Safe Active Travel for Women & Girls in Greater Manchester via our blog.