I moved to Washington Heights three months ago, optimistic that I would be living in a safe and family-oriented environment. Our broker, landlord, and several people in the street were very complimentary of the neighborhood. I had high hopes. And everyday since I moved in, it’s been a nonstop harassment party for the men that lurk on the street. They come up to me, get in my face, whisper in my ear, cat call across the street, smooch at me as I walk by. Who knew “God bless you” could be the worst thing I hear all day? When it’s dripping with prurience, it’s disgusting and threatening.
I can’t even dress the way I want to (we’re talking nice jeans, nice top) unless I’m with my husband because of the attention it draws.
The worst of it is, their words & advancements are intimidating, weakening, crippling even. I feel powerless. Thank you for giving me hope that we can fight this.
To an outsider, this may seem a petty nuisance, but when it affects where you walk in your neighborhood, what you wear, how you carry yourself in the public sphere, it’s impinging on your rights! It’s an insidious crime. I hope we can all stop it, at least for the next generation.
Optional: What’s one way you think we can make public places safer for everyone?
Education, classes & workshops for parents to learn ways to teach their children the respectful, and more effective ways to pursue people they’re interested in.
– Anonymous
Location: 162nd & Broadway Washington Heights, New York, NY
Share your street harassment story for the blog.
See the book 50 Stories about Stopping Street Harassers for more idea
