Last week at the end of the work day I exited my office, and approached my car parked directly out front. In the few seconds it takes to make this walk a young male spotted me as he drove past and yelled out his window “”….f@$% you in your P@$$#!”” I couldn’t make out all of it, but it is by far the most violent of words I have heard someone hurl at me as they drive past. I was the only person on the street.
I don’t consider myself an easy target. Although it’s summer, there was nothing skimpy about my clothing. I try to dress nicely, but I’m not an attention-grabber. I consider myself average looking, and don’t think I have ever fit the stereotypical profile of someone that some people might justify is “asking for it.” I prefer to keep to myself, and behave with dignity. By the sound of the pubescent cracks in that kid’s voice, I’d guess I’m at least ten years his elder. I highly doubt I’ve ever come into contact with him before, or that I ever will again. I was just a woman getting into her car.
At other times I’ve been an average woman out for a walk with a group of friends, or a woman waiting at a do not cross light. In some ways it is comforting that these encounters are anonymous. I can imagine that these men would not yell insults at me while they were within range of a pepper spray canister. However, it’s confusing that such an average woman can be assaulted anywhere, at any time, simply because I must walk down a street.
– BKM
Location: Lacey, WA
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