NEW YORK CITY — To advocate for women’s liberation internationally, Montague resident Francia Wisnewski is running the New York City Marathon on Sunday.
Wisnewski will join a group of runners to support Free to Run, an organization that uses sport to create pathways for women to initiate change in communities inhibited by gender inequities. This latest marathon continues a series of races Wisnewski has been running in support of feminist causes. She hopes her efforts raise both awareness and money for an organization working toward an “incredible cause.”
Growing up in Colombia, Wisnewski’s ability to engage with certain activities, such as running, were restricted. Her running journey began at the age of 35, nine years ago and around a decade after she’d immigrated to the United States. A Greenfield resident at the time, her first race was a 5-kilometer event in support of an organization that helped women suffering from domestic violence. As she became more invested in the sport, she continued down a path of feminist advocacy, recognizing the breadth of gender inequality worldwide.
“It’s amazing to understand that these global issues are pertinent to so many countries,” Wisnewski said.
In 2018, she was introduced to Free to Run by a friend who inspired her to join the team. The organization, which is primarily focused on empowering women from Afghanistan and Iraq, resonated with her as she sought to understand societal conditions in both regions.
“These conditions of women in Afghanistan and Iraq … are critical right now,” Wisnewski said.
For Wisnewski, running the New York City Marathon is a grand vessel for a medium she considers a unique community builder.
“Sports really brings you endurance and a process and a community that really builds together,” she said. “It’s contagious. These cultures of active people are growing.”
Wisnewski hopes those who feel similarly to her will consider donating at bit.ly/3mA8D5Y. On the fundraising page, she expressed the gravity of the cause.
“You all have seen in the news that the security situation has deteriorated significantly with the Taliban entering Kabul,” she wrote. “Operating in Afghanistan over the last seven years has never been easy for Free to Run, but the current situation brings new and immense challenges. Your donation will help now more than ever.”
Reach Julian Mendoza at 413-772-0261, ext. 261 or jmendoza@recorder.com.