I was walking home in broad daylight, on the sidewalk, through my very residential neighborhood, and I sensed a car slowing behind me. I kept walking. The man in the car slowed to talk to me and I thought that he might be asking me for directions. I couldn’t understand what he said initially, so I said, “Where are you trying to get to?” And he laughed and said, “No, I asked where you’re going” with a gross look on his face. I responded, “To my house. Alone.”
I started walking and he paused before driving, and I got out my phone with every intention of calling 911 if necessary.
This made me feel gross, like I must have done something to invite his attention, and a little concerned for my safety, as I was actually near my house and I was worried that he would see which driveway I turned into. I immediately texted my husband to tell him how awful I felt.
Optional: What’s one way you think we can make public places safer for everyone?
Educate men that street harassment really has no point–it’s offensive, it makes women feel like trash, it leads to safety issues, and (if they only care about themselves) it will not lead to a productive conversation or “hook up” with a woman.
– KL
Location: Indianapolis, IN
Share your street harassment story for the blog.
See the book 50 Stories about Stopping Street Harassers for more idea
