On 12 April 2018, the United Nations General Assembly declared June 3rd World Bicycle Day, recognising the uniqueness, longevity and versatility of the bicycle, which has been in use for over two centuries. It also highlighted its benefits as a simple, affordable, reliable, clean and environmentally fit and sustainable means of transportation, promoting health for all.
The UN recently highlighted the bicycle as a key driver of post-COVID-19 green recovery; in addition, the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) noted that investing in pedestrians and cyclists – who often make up the majority of citizens in a city - can save lives, help protect the environment and support poverty reduction.
To mark the third edition of World Bicycle Day, the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) will be hosting several digital activities during the day – and we hope you will join us!
You can take part in our Zwift virtual rides with four of today’s biggest cycling stars; you can help make an impact by joining World Bicycle Relief’s #CyclingActsofKindness campaign, or just have a laugh thanks to the funny and inspirational videos we will share all day. We are certain you will find an activity to suit you!
The UCI is also excited to be part of a global kindness movement that’s rolling out on June 3rd, which was designed by NGO World Bicycle Relief (WBR). WBR mobilizes people through “The Power of Bicycles”, by manufacturing and distributing rugged, specially-designed, locally-assembled bicycles to students, healthcare workers, entrepreneurs and workers in developing regions of the world where distance is a challenge.
#CyclingActsofKindness celebrates the idea that one act of kindness can change the world. And what better time than now to share kindness on two wheels? The idea is simple. World Bicycle Relief is asking people around the globe to:
1: Hop on your bike and perform an act of kindness
Deliver food to a friend, pick up groceries for a neighbour, go plant a tree...have fun, and spread joy! (while following local social distancing guidelines, of course).
2: Share your story on social media using #CyclingActsofKindness
Show the world what kindness on your bike looks like.
3: Encourage your community to keep the kindness rolling
Tell your friends to join us with their own #CyclingActsofKindness.
Every day, and all around the world, people are doing good by simply choosing to cycle. Whether for personal reasons, such as health, freedom, independence; for the environment, by choosing a sustainable and active mobility mode over motorised transport; or to help others, by visiting a friend, grocery shopping for family, or transporting their kids to play in the park. This campaign aims to make such acts of kindness visible – and celebrate them around the world, connecting cyclists and stories with valuable social impact. It’s your turn – share your #CyclingActsofKindness today!