This happened 6 years ago, but I haven’t forgotten it and just discovered this website so I thought I would share my story.
When I was ten years old, my fifth grade class (FIFTH GRADE) went to a play. When we were leaving the play we were standing around waiting for our bus near some adults. I didn’t see who it was, but I knew it was an adult because of the size of their hand, but someone grabbed my bottom, squeezed it, and then spanked it, hard enough for it to hurt for a while after.
At the time I was so surprised by it, but having experienced the things I’ve experienced now at 16 (having my butt rubbed, a man take a picture down my shirt, a guy shout, “I remember you from last night,” and too many more to list. These are just the ones that have happened in the past week).
Every time I go out in public there are men leering at me, and whenever I go out without my parents they say what they are really thinking or follow me. It’s such an unpleasant experience.
It really helps to read other people’s stories. I am so amazed by the courage that so many women have shown in the face of these things, and although I haven’t had the guts to do anything about it, I hope that I will someday soon.I usually just ignore the comments/stares and walk away, or in the opposite direction depending on the severity of it. I don’t know what else to do!
– LB
Location: Northern California
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alan says
No 10 year old, nor any 16 year old, nor any XX year old should be violated or experience these things!! good for you for writing this experience, you’ll figure out how to become more empowered.
administrator says
Very true. But it always makes me that more indignant when a man engages in street harassment and assault against a a girl or very young woman as in many ways they are more vulnerable and less able to do something about it than a woman who is older.