Latinas en Bici

In 2016, Olivia Barraza, a single mother of four boys, one with a disability, took a bike ride with her sister and brother-in-law in the Northwest Arkansas (NWA) Razorback Greenway. She had been feeling lonely as she took care of her boys. Isolation and depression were a part of her daily life. When Olivia finished that first 10-mile bike ride, she felt so relaxed that she decided to continue cycling.

Cycling opened up a whole new world for her. It helped her feel empowered and confident. She began her journey by learning the basics, spending a lot of time riding from Rogers to Fayetteville. The experience of discovering other cities via the trails was liberating. The physical, mental, and emotional benefits were astounding, and she wanted other women to experience this freedom.

When Olivia joined her first cycling group in NWA, she felt as though something was missing. Every time she rode with them, she looked around the group of predominantly white faces and asked herself, “but where is my community?” She realized there was a lack of diversity in the cycling community and knew something had to be done.  

So, in 2019, she started Latinas en Bici. She wanted to provide a place where people like her could feel represented and have a sense of connection and belonging. The cycling community needed more diversity, and women like her could utilize the space, creating an opportunity to experience the support and liberation endemic to cycling. Thus, Latinas en Bici has a mission to welcome and educate Latina women into the world of cycling.

We are an organization created for Latina women of all skill levels to feel safe in a non-intimidating environment; to feel empowered and confident navigating trails and greenways through education. Latinas En Bici continues the biking community's work to lower the barrier of entry for women and young girls. We started with 10 members and now has more than 100 members all over NWA and continues to grow. Our mission is to improve the social and physical well-being for Latinas through our weekly bike rides and multicultural events. Olivia & her crew are ready to welcome anyone, not just as members, but as volunteers for rides and even educational workshops. Help us continue impacting the NWA community through cycling and choosing healthier and happier lifestyles.