Cyclists and hikers gathered in Highland Park on March 7 to celebrate the 115th anniversary of International Women’s Day, despite spring-like temperatures and light rain. The event, organized by the group International Women’s Day – Together We Ride at Trek Highland Park, drew participants from across Illinois and beyond, highlighting the growing global movement that combines cycling with activism.

Community-Driven Movement Gains International Reach

Dawn Piech, a Chicago-area physical therapist and founder of the Facebook group International Women’s Day – Together We Ride, said the event, now in its seventh year, has grown into a global phenomenon. Women from Illinois and around the world ride their bikes on March 8 in a show of solidarity for women everywhere.

What began as a local tradition in the Midwest has expanded through the group’s active Facebook page, where participants organize neighborhood rides, share stories, and stay connected year-round. Piech noted that the movement has attracted riders from other states and countries, transforming it into an international community.

Event Combines Cycling and Activism

Barb Klinner, a Highland Park resident and cyclist, joined the Women’s Day ride, saying the event combines two of her favorite passions: cycling and activism. ‘This is about showing up for one another,’ she said.

The ride, which began at the Trek Bicycle Store at 1925 Skokie Valley Road at 10 a.m., covered 19.3 miles of local bike trails and neighborhood streets, with a stop at Forest Park Beach and past Highwood’s murals before returning to Trek for a post-ride celebration. Sheri Rosenbaum, Trek Highland Park’s Women’s Advocate and event organizer, emphasized the symbolism of cycling as a form of forward movement and positivity.

Participants had the option to ride bikes or hike, and the celebration continued at Trek with a Pilates class, pizza, and a raffle. M.J. Drouganis of Des Plaines participated in the event, noting the importance of women being visible in a sport that has become increasingly male-dominated.

‘It’s important for women to get out and ride,’ Drouganis said. ‘Cycling is not about how far you go or how fast you are. It’s about getting active and supporting women together.’

Event Raises Funds for Global Impact

Piech said that last year, the event brought together 3,750 local, national, and international participants, and the goal is to reach 4,500 this year. In addition to Saturday’s event, Together We Ride offers scheduled ride events throughout Chicagoland from March 8 through March 11.

The event also raises funds for World Bicycle Relief, a nonprofit that equips women, students, and communities with bicycles to improve access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunity. KC Speich, owner and general manager of Trek Highland Park, said the shop aims to create a safe and comfortable space for women to pursue cycling.

Trek Highland Park’s official Facebook group, Trek Bicycle Store of Highland Park Women’s Group, communicates upcoming events, clinics, and provides practical information about the sport. To keep up with the movement’s growth, Piech launched an official nonprofit in 2021 called Inspyrd Movement, with a mission to inspire individuals to elevate diversity, equity, and inclusion through movement.

‘At its core, the event is a show of solidarity for women everywhere,’ Piech said. ‘It’s about building confidence, supporting encouragement across generations and geographies, and reminding women, no matter where they are, they don’t ride alone.’