This morning, I was walking to work, listening to my iPod and I was passing a construction site that has been up and running for almost a year. One of the construction workers said, “Good morning, beautiful” to me. I got so annoyed I turned around and said something to him. I said, “Why do you think it’s appropriate to catcall women? I’m having a nice morning walking to work and you ruined it.” He then proceeded to make a rude comment about how I tripped when he said something and that he “made me nervous” I told him me tripping had nothing to do with him and that he was embarrassing himself in front of his colleagues (about 8 of his co-workers were watching this).
One of his colleagues stepped in and told him to apologize and he refused to. I stood there waiting and finally his colleague apologized on his behalf and I said thank you and went on my way.
Afterwards, I felt empowered for sticking up for myself but now I am just nervous to pass that corner again. It is so frustrating that I need to be scared to walk to work at 8:45 a.m.. Also, I wish I had waited for the harasser to actually apologize.
Optional: What’s one way you think we can make public places safer for everyone?
I wish someone (man or woman) came to my defense this morning after witnessing me stick up for myself. After all, it was me again 9 construction workers. If I ever witness a girl in my situation, I will go to her aid.
– Anonymous
Location: Midtown East, New York, New York, USA
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