A message from our CEO:
Support Bicycle Diplomacy Here
Hey there, I'm Felecia, and I can't contain my enthusiasm for the incredible work we do at Utah Global Diplomacy. Our focus? Forging global connections between Utah locals and individuals worldwide, fostering respect and goodwill on an international scale. And you know what makes it even cooler? We achieve this, one handshake at a time.
But that's not all—I have another love in my life: cycling. And as the new year kicked off, I had an idea. What if I merged my passion for biking with citizen diplomacy? That's right, I'm embarking on a journey to become a bicycle ambassador, practicing citizen diplomacy one bicycle ride at a time.
So, hop on board - or better yet, get on your bike and ride - as I explore the depths of citizen diplomacy. Riding alongside inspiring individuals, I'll discover their perspectives on this noble endeavor, seeking out the common ground that unites us as fellow human beings. Together, we'll pave the way for a more connected and understanding world.
Cycling provides an incredible opportunity for diplomatic engagement, thanks to its slower pace, which allows for more in-depth interaction with those around you. Most famously, Ambassador Ted Osius, the U.S. Ambassador to Vietnam, used bicycle diplomacy to bridge divides between Vietnam and the United States. Well, I believe riding my bike with others is an opportunity to find the spirit of Utah and American generosity and foster goodwill. Thus was born The Bicycle Diplomacy Project, and educational and fundraising event that supports our mission.
You might be wondering what The Bicycle Diplomacy Project looks like. Well, starting in May I will become a bicycle ambassador for citizen diplomacy. I will ride with people in our local community, get to know them as fellow human beings, explore what citizen diplomacy means to them, and find common ground that connects us. Then in July, I will participate in the ultimate bicycle diplomacy event: RAGBRAI (Register's Annual Great Bicycle Ride Across Iowa). This event welcomes 15,000 riders from the United States and around the world who will ride across Iowa over seven days. I will capture these rides and interviews on social media and share them on various platforms so that you can join in the experience.
I should mention that I am an average person; I run this amazing nonprofit, I am a mom and wife, and I love music, gardening, and the red rocks of Utah. Additionally, these rides are nothing exceptional. However, I believe so strongly in the value of citizen diplomacy, and through my experience, I want to demonstrate the power that everyday people have in making the world more peaceful.
Additionally, I'm a game nerd, so to make this fun and exciting and keep me on track, I have created a Bicycle Diplomacy Bingo card – see the bingo card below to follow along!
So, how can you support this campaign?
My goal is to raise $10,000 by riding more than 500 miles and interviewing more than 25 people, documenting my experience to share with you. Your donations are made directly to Utah Global Diplomacy, and 100% of the money raised will go to support our mission, programs, and services, as I have covered all my travel, logistical, and equipment expenses.
Please consider supporting this campaign in two ways: First, please donate to this campaign. It is a fun way to see citizen diplomacy in action! Second, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. if you would like to participate in one of my bicycle diplomacy rides!
Globally,
Felecia Maxfield-Barrett
President & CEO
Support Bicycle Diplomacy Here
Bicycle Diplomacy Bingo Card
Download the PDF Bingo Card Here
