Wanderlust

What did these people sign up for?

TRAVEL the United States by bicycle on this five week, 1,600 mile ride from New Orleans to New York City. We’ll pass through sleepy farm towns, primordial swamps, coastal plains, and green rolling hills on our way to the chaos and vitality of Manhattan. There will be a two day orientation in New Orleans from May 24th – May 25th, and the ride will leave New Orleans on May 26th. We’ll arrive in New York on Tuesday, July 1st, for a ride finale celebration.

EXPLORE the politics of reproductive health and sexuality. Along the trip, we’ll be meeting with reproductive health care providers, sexuality educators, community organizers, and others who are working to promote positive sexuality and access to reproductive health care in their communities.

LEAD discussions about the things you care about and share your skills with the rest of the riders. Every rider will participate in planning and facilitating the ride and the conversations we have along the way.

SHARE your experiences and motivation for supporting reproductive justice with the communities we visit as well as your fellow riders. People who are currently engaged in working for reproductive justice as well as people new to the movement are encouraged and welcomed on the trip.

CHALLENGE yourself by traveling by bicycle with a group of supportive, non-judgmental riders. Whether you’re an experienced cyclist or you’re dusting off your eighth grade cruiser, there is a place for you on this adventure.

LEARN about the history of the fight for reproductive justice in the United States and the current political situation in different states and areas. The trip will include a two day pre-trip orientation that will cover reproductive justice issues, group dynamics, facilitation skills, bike repair, and more.

PARTICIPATE in learning and service exchanges with the host communities and organizations we visit along the route.

The participant information packet is chock-full of everything you could possibly want to know about the bike tour, including specifics like participant roles, frequently asked questions, fundraising information, and a “typical day” on the road. You can download it by clicking here – tripinformation.pdf

If you’re interested in applying, please click here to visit the Application page.

If you have specific questions about the trip, please feel free to email wanderlust@protectchoice.org

TIMELINE

FUNDRAISING

A trip of this size and scope takes a significant investment of resources to put together, and every participant is expected to help gather those resources. We recognize that everyone’s financial circumstances are different, and we strive to be able to accept participants regardless of ability to raise funds. With this in mind, we will provide LOTS of support to help you raise money. If you have questions or concerns about the fundraising commitment, please let us know.

A $1,500 fundraising commitment covers:

• A support and gear vehicle to carry baggage
• Food and lodging for the duration of the trip
• Liability insurance for the riders
• Wanderlust materials, orientation, and debrief

It does NOT cover:

• Transportation to the beginning or end of the ride
• Bicycles or bike gear
• Souvenirs, mementos, or parties
• Health insurance

Limited scholarships may be available to cover transportation, bicycles, etc. You’re still on your own for parties.