Two times in the last week I have had different guys shout out of the passenger side of a car at me. Also, I’m a guy. The first screamed “faggot” and the second said, “Looking gay today” as I walked by the car while it was at a stop light.
I’m a straight guy who does take care of the way I look. I am not afraid to wear brighter colors.
Neither of these are my first experiences with such harassment, but I’ve never had two within a week. The first time this week really pissed me off and I wanted to punch the guy in the face. I stewed about it for a while, feeling a little shamed and shocked. I wondered why on earth the guy felt he had any right to even comment on me walking down the street.
The second time the guy didn’t scream it at me but just said nonchalantly, “Looking gay today.” I ignored it and wondered why him and the other guy even noticed me and bothered to comment. I think that says something about them right there.
That second time I felt pretty belittled and there were a couple of other people nearby. I felt like that comment might initiate more harassment from someone else. I walked quickly with my senses heightened concerned that someone might decide to act on the comment. I also prepared to throw the hardest punches I could if need be. So I felt I needed to prepare to fight, both times. Luckily I just kept going and nothing came of it.
Optional: What’s one way you think we can make public places safer for everyone?
As far as street harassment goes, perhaps passing a law making it illegal to threaten or harass people from a car.
– J
Location: First place was in Sammamish, WA, by Pine Lake, second was by Target across the street from Northgate Mall in Seattle.
Share your street harassment story for the blog.
See the book 50 Stories about Stopping Street Harassers for more idea.
