it’s always whispering in my ear
michelle park close
michelle get out of the car
michelle don’t waste anytime with the car door open
michelle be aware of your surroundings
michelle remember where you are parked
michelle memorize street names and landmarks
michelle text someone where you are just in case
michelle move quickly
michelle who’s behind you?
michelle this looks like a bad spot, not safe
michelle watch out for that man over there
michelle he’s looking at you
michelle turn around, go another direction even if it takes longer
michelle that man followed you through four aisles
michelle have your keys out before leaving
michelle walk where there’s more people
michelle you got your mace? don’t be lazy, put it in your hand
michelle find your car quick
michelle that man whistled at you
michelle i think he’s hollering something at you
michelle keep your gaze straight forward and focused
michelle look behind you
michelle scan for threats
michelle keep your head down
michelle look up
michelle act natural
michelle walk faster
michelle run
michelle yell if you have to
michelle have your car keys ready
michelle get in and lock the doors
michelle i know it’s hot but the windows have to stay up
michelle relax before people start thinking you’re “neurotic”
Optional: What’s one way you think we can make public places safer for everyone?
One thing I would love to see if for men to become upstanders and interrupt harassment in public
– Michelle Marie Ryder
Location: USA
Need support? Call the toll-free National Street Harassment hotline: 855-897-5910
Share your street harassment story for the blog.
See the book 50 Stories about Stopping Street Harassers for ideas.
