Protect Our Planet and its People

The First Step in a Series of Calls to Action: 10 Loops for Climate Justice with Environmental Defense Fund.

I feel a deep sense of urgency to ACT NOW after this election. On November 16th, I’m kicking off a year of action with what I can do immediately today- 10 loops around Prospect Park, Brooklyn—a total of 33.5 miles—to raise funds and awareness for climate justice, environmental protection, and human rights through the Environmental Defense Fund (EDF).

Cycling has always been my superpower when it comes to raising awareness and funds for various causes from riding the Boston to New York Aids Ride in 1996, participating in social justice rides during the pandemic, The Climate Ride in Western New York and The Ride for Mental Health (3 years in a row). This ride will serve as the starting point for my larger efforts to help protect climate action, racial justice, and LGBTQ+ rights in the face of the challenges ahead during the next presidency. This inaugural ride (hence the image of myself as a kid on my bike) is about mobilizing hope, fueling collective action, and trying to make a difference in a dark time. It’s the first of many of my upcoming efforts to keep building momentum for climate justice and other vulnerable causes and communities that will be in jeopardy after this election.

It’s the first call to action in a series of efforts that will continue throughout 2025, as we work together to protect the planet, defend vulnerable communities, and ensure that climate and social justice remain at the forefront of the national agenda. The Environmental Defense Fund has been leading the charge to create meaningful, science-backed solutions to protect the environment—and this ride is our way of supporting and amplifying their mission.

As a kid, cycling was my freedom. It was how I got around, how I connected with nature, and how I moved through the world. Today, cycling is not just about movement—it’s about making every action count for the planet. And that’s why I’m starting with this ride at this time and asking you to support me.

Here’s how you can help me reach my goal:

Donate to my ride: Every donation, no matter the size, will support EDF's critical work to fight climate change, reduce emissions, and support people’s health.

Share my campaign: Help me spread the word! The more people who know about this cause, the greater impact we can have.

Join me in spirit: Even if you can’t donate, your encouragement means the world. Follow my ride and cheer me on.

My Goal:

Date: 8 AM November 16th, 2024

Location: Prospect Park, Brooklyn

Challenge: 10 loops (3.35 miles per loop = 33.5 miles total)

I’m calling on you to help me turn this personal goal into a broader movement for climate action in anticipation of what's coming down the pike in 2025. Every dollar you contribute will directly support EDF's work to pass climate policies, protect communities on the frontlines, clean our air and water, and much more

Together, we can make a real difference. As leaders like Donald Trump continue to push extreme, anti-environmental policies, we must act to protect the places we love and ensure a future where both people and nature can thrive.

By joining forces with the Environmental Defense Fund (EDF), we can stabilize the climate, strengthen the resilience of people and nature, and ensure that our communities can adapt and thrive in the face of climate challenges. EDF has been leading the charge for science-based solutions that protect the environment and safeguard human health. But they need our help to keep pushing for change.

Your donation today will help:

Stabilize the climate by advocating for bold climate policies that reduce emissions, promote clean energy, and protect natural ecosystems that are essential to our survival.

Strengthen the ability of people and nature to thrive by supporting projects that protect vulnerable communities, conserve biodiversity, and restore critical habitats.

Support people’s health by fighting for clean air, clean water, and sustainable environments that promote well-being and reduce climate-related health risks.

Act Now. Donate Today. THANK YOU!!!!

In gratitude and solidarity,

Sarma