I entered the train, and the guy on the left of me pretended to “help” me into the train by grabbing my lower back and grazing it saying, “Here you go, sweetie.” My shirt on the back had a certain pattern that showed a bit of skin and his hands literally made contact with my skin.
When I told him, “Please don’t touch me,” he proceeded to insult my body, saying “There’s not much to touch,” and laugh with his friend and make insulting comments about my race loudly so everyone on the train could hear. Both he and his friend continued to make harassing and provocative remarks throughout the train ride, hoping I would react verbally. I didn’t.
Instead, I turned around and took his photo. His eyes stared right into mine as I did it, looking surprised. Guess he didn’t expect that one.
Optional: What’s one way you think we can make public places safer for everyone?
Keep taking photos of harassers if you feel it is safe to do so. Keep documenting every time you’re harassed. If they know they can’t get away with it, they may be less likely to to try again next time.
– Anonymous
Location: New York 6 Train
Share your street harassment story for the blog.
See the book 50 Stories about Stopping Street Harassers for more idea
