Today was a rest day in Edmonton which started with a morning interview with Global TV at 8:30 am. It was a good interview – and here’s the link if you want to see it:
http://globalnews.ca/video/716544/change-the-cycle-2
There were thunderstorms but I was lucky that I didn’t get poured on when I biked to the Global studio.
In the interview I focused on men needing to identify sexist and disrespectful behaviour and challenge each other when they see it happen amongst their neighbours, friends and family members; that men start talking with each other about these issues and work towards change. Also, that men end using pornography in which women are treated in ways they would not want their daughters, sisters and mothers be treated by men. As I left the Studio the woman at reception spoke to me about Change the Cycle. She emphasized how important change is and that she knows of a woman who was killed by her husband years ago. She remembered how this woman would not talk about anything and became increasingly isolated before her death. She wished me success with this project.
Then I met Colleen’s brother Dennis who extra drove with his children Samarah, Emmett and Eli.
We had a great time strolling around town looking at art on the streets and listen to some folk music. The children also explored bookstores and an Antique store. We had such a great relaxed time.
Later I had another interview with Global for their evening news at 6 and 11. This time the reporter came to the place where I was staying with camera. It was fun having Dennis and his children watching the filming and interviewing procedures. Afterwards a reporter from the Sherwood Park News came to interview me as well. This reporter was wonderfully prepared and asked poignant questions. He asked specifically about the Highway of Tears as part of Change the Cycle.
Tomorrow I will continue towards Jasper . The weather forecast calls for Thunderstorms.
Here’s the Purdon – Jerome family with me.
Sand sculptures are singing in the parks of Edmonton
What a great idea, Joachim! I am impressed with your motive and endurance.
All the best in your travels and in getting out this important message.
Lynne
Thanks Lynne
Let’s find our collective endurance for change
Joachim
Your solo bike tour to raise awareness about male violence toward women encourages me. Confronting sexist male behavior seems hard; on the other hand, your compassionate invitation to treat women as we would want our daughters, sisters and mothers to be treated by other men certainly provides a way. You may feel like your cycling alone, but there are many of us who are with you in spirit.
Thanks Michael
Yes it’s important to feel collective spirit in changing the cycle. We know that it needs that invitation from man to man to engage in this historic process