I’m only 14 years old. I was walking from my dance studio to a water ice booth a few doors down in the shopping center while I was on break from dancing. There were a group of boys loitering next to the water ice booth. They looked about 18-20. One went up to me as I was waiting for my milkshake and was like ʺnice assʺ an pointed at my sweatpants. I told him firmly, ʺPlease leave me alone and mind your business.”
They all starting laughing and one went up to me, touched my shoulder, tried to pull me close, and said, ʺHey baby, will you buy me some water ice?ʺ I thought he escalated it by touching me being close to me, so I slapped him hard grabbed my milkshake and ran all the way across the shopping center and into my dance studio again. I never thought I was considered ʺsexyʺ or ʺhotʺ. I’m in 8th grade! It really shook me up.
Optional: What’s one way you think we can make public places safer for everyone?
If there are any outdoor stands or booths where you have to wait for the employee to come take your order, to always have a bell at the counter, so you aren’t stuck waiting and looking vulnerable. You can get what you need and get out because most people loiter near these places.
G.S.
Location: Rita’s Water Ice, New Castle, DE
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See the book 50 Stories about Stopping Street Harassers for more idea
