This is part of the Monday series “Street Respect. “Street respect” is the term for respectful, polite, and consensual interactions that happen between strangers in public spaces. It’s the opposite of “street harassment.” Share your street respect story and show the kind of interactions you’d like to have in public in place of street harassment.
There are four construction sites within a two block radius of my house. As you know, that leaves plenty of opportunity for being harassed. I must say, though, that these particular crews of men don’t resort to the usual staring, whistling and commenting that women within their sights tend to experience, despite the fact that three of these sites are right by the local gym and scores of women in shorts and form fitting workout gear pass them by daily.
Kudos and much respect to these men for acting like mature, polite, well raised men. As the women walk by, there may be an occasional glance or two, but no more…. there’s no extended leer or stare. They keep their attention more focused on the job at hand. No whistles, no lewd comments…if there’s anything, it’s just a quick smile. Bravo!
Other construction crews could learn from these guys!! They should give a class on how to behave when you’re in someone else’s neighborhood working, seriously! Anyhow, I just wanted to shed light on these four crews working in my hood being respectful of all who pass and not creating an uncomfortable climate, unlike others have in the past. It’s refreshing and much appreciated! 😉
– Yvonne
Location: 30th Ave and 38th St. in Astoria, Queens, New York
