I run for the cross country team at my high school. It shouldn’t matter, but I am a female runner. Because of this street harassment is something I experience almost weekly. Men think it is appropriate to honk, whistle and yell at me and my team while we run. One time a passenger held a sign that said, “Show me your boobs” (to teenage girls!)
Because I was, and still am afraid of cat calls and honking, running alone is a luxury I don’t often indulge. When I do I try to wear pants and would never wear a tank top or spandex even when its a hot afternoon.
What bothers me most is that the boys always run shirtless, no one bothers them. I deserve to wear whatever I want and feel safe. I am so glad to be a part of stopping street harassment week because no one should have to endure being publicly embarrassed.
– Clarissa
Location: Chino Hills, California
Share your street harassment story!
“The event was a success, the public was thoroughly engaged, and many women joined in and used the chalk to speak out against street harassment and sexual harassment. We also had many men who were curious…We will plan more art and movement activism events around Stopping Street Harassment Against Women. The more we stand up and make ourselves public, the more we can engage and educate the general public to help make changes towards eradicating sexually harassment against women.”