Empowering Indigenous Women in Mountain Biking: A Story of Community and Connection
In the realm of mountain biking, the thrill of racing down rugged terrains and the camaraderie among riders are experiences that are cherished deeply. However, the sport also has the power to bridge cultures and empower communities, as showcased by pro enduro racer Miranda Miller in the season finale of her series, “Here. There. Everywhere.”
In this special episode, Miranda, a Squamish, B.C. local and the 2017 world champion, collaborates with the Indigenous Women Outdoors (IWO) program, dedicating her expertise to help a group of riders gear up for the Sturdy Dirty enduro race. This collaboration is not just about mastering the trails, but also about igniting a spirit of empowerment, resilience, and connection among Indigenous women.
The IWO program is a beacon of empowerment that provides Indigenous women the platform to explore and excel in outdoor sports activities. It operates on the profound Seventh Generation Principle, an indigenous concept from the Haudenosaunee, which emphasizes thinking about the impact of one’s actions on the next seven generations and honoring the seven generations that came before.
As Miranda and the IWO riders prepare for the race, they are not just racing for themselves. They are challenging themselves to lead and inspire the youth for the next seven generations. This episode, filmed on the Indigenous Land of Coast Salish peoples, specifically Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Nation (Squamish) and the Snoqualmie Indian Tribe, is a beautiful narrative of how sports can transcend boundaries and foster a sense of community and empowerment.
