Men regularly yell at me at on the street, however, the frequency fluctuates from a few times a month to a few times a day depending on where I am. The street harassment started when I was about 12. I have been harassed in school uniform as well as regular clothes of all forms and styles. I have been called a slut, bitch etc, wolf whistled at as well as tooted at by men of all ages — however it is mostly men under about 30.
The vast majority of street harassment that I get comes from men in passing cars, it is very frustrating because as soon as it happens it is too late to say something back or gather details because they have driven off. If I had the chance I would say, “Don’t speak to me like that” and collect any details I could such as the car’s number plate to notify police, but these men disappear before they face any consequences. It leaves me feeling helpless because I’m left there feeling abused and powerless, unable to take action.
I think women need support for the issue, however it is my concern the role of the young men in this is often ignored. I worry that many young men don’t actually understand why it is wrong to yell at a woman on the street and think it is some kind of funny game. I think it would be appropriate for young men to be educated on this in ways that are effective, such as in school.
This is a legal matter but I don’t think legislation will be very effective in changing attitudes because the last thing on the mind of someone who is about to yell at a woman on the street is if it’s legal or not. There must be a shift in our culture’s view of woman as well as a man’s right to say such things to a woman.
Do you have any suggestions for dealing with harassers and/or ending street harassment in general?
If it is safe to, say something back that is firm and assertive but try not be rude back as that can be counter productive.
– BL
Location: Either walking down the street or waiting at the bus stop, New Zealand.
Share your street harassment story for the blog.
See the book 50 Stories about Stopping Street Harassers for more idea
