Wonder Woman of the Week: Behnaz Shafiei

Iran has a reputation as a sexist nation that forces women to wear certain types of clothing and prevents women from being who they chose to be. While there is some truth to that, it’s not completely accurate. In Iran, there are a handful of women pushing back in favor of women’s rights and this week’s spotlight might be the most badass woman doing so. Behnaz Shafiei is the Wonder Woman of the Week.

As the dust settled after a long ride through the Iranian plains and the motorcyclist dismounted with the other riders, a group of onlookers were surprised to see long blonde hair pour out from under one of the riders’ helmet. In a move that put Eowyn’s “I am no man,” bit to shame, Behnaz Shafiei removed her helmet to show an audience she had just proven women can be badass motorcross riders too. This is a common occurance for the 26 year-old Iranian. With her helmet on and her skills on the track, she’s often mistaken as a man. [1]

When men in the crowd see Shafiei remove her helmet and reveal her gender, they often reply with, “Damet-garm.” (Right on!) Women In Iran are still legally banned from riding motorcycles. Even participation in sports is limited. Shafiei and six other women however have special permission to ride in clubs and practice on off-road circuits. She’s the only female rider to compete in professional road racing. She’s meeting praise outside her country, and in. National TV stations have been broadcasting her story and audience reaction is always positive. [2]

Behnaz Shafiei says she was eleven when her story with motorbikes began. She saw a woman riding in the countryside and knew riding motorcycles was her destiny. “My goal is to be a pioneer for other women,” Shafiei stated. “Together we can convince the authorities to recognize female motorcycle racing.” [3]

Women in Iran get a negative reputation as victims of sexist laws and a culture that keeps them from being whoever they want to be. If it is true that women in Iran suffer from a culture that prevents women from achieving their dreams, Behnaz Shafiei’s story is made even more incredible. The story isn’t just about her though. Shafiei herself said the men of her country take no issue to finding out the person that had just dominated the track was a woman. Most of them say, “Right on!” Whether in Iran or in the United States, a woman with that kind of following deserves praise.

“Behnaz Shafiei rides bikes against laws and convention in Iran.” 11 June 2015. BBC Sport. Accessed 22 July 2015. http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/motorsport/33096227

Dehghan, Saeen Kamali. “Roaring to go: the female motorbike rider who wants to race for Iran.” 13 April 2015. The Guardian. Accessed 22 July 2015. http://www.theguardian.com/world/2015/apr/13/roaring-to-go-the-female-motorbike-rider-who-wants-to-race-for-iran

“Iran Motorbike Racer Behnaz Shafiei Breaks Barriers and The Law For Gender Equality.” 15 June 2015. Women You Should Know. Accessed 22 July 2015. http://www.womenyoushouldknow.net/iranian-motorbike-racer-behnaz-shafiei-breaks-barriers-and-the-law-for-gender-equality/