I am 14 years old and I live in southern Wisconsin. I was grocery shopping with my mom. This was a couple months ago… This was my first time getting harassed.
So I was wearing some really skinny leggings. And I felt confident, then my mother told me to get milk. So I was walking towards the milk and there was a whole bunch of people. As I was walking I got these weird stares and I felt uncomfortable. Suddenly I felt a light finger touch my butt. I was really shocked and I wanted to cry. I turned around and a man said, “Oh sorry”.
I wanted to claw his face but I thought I could get in trouble. So I let him go free. Nobody saw!!!! I was so mad!!! I am scared of men now. Even my own uncles and father!! I told my family and they took it as a joke and laughed away the serious conversation.
I need some real help!! Can anyone suggest something’s that can help me? I am very depressed and terrified of even looking my best for anything! I sometimes cry myself to sleep. Help!! Oh and people honk at me when I walk around my block.
Do you have any suggestions for dealing with harassers and/or ending street harassment in general?
– Anonymous
Location: A grocery store in Wisconsin
Share your street harassment story for the blog.
Nicole says
Dear Anonymous,
Firstly, I’m so sorry that you went through such an awful and traumatic experience – especially at such a young age.
Please understand that what happened is in no way your fault. What this man did was uncalled for. What you wear is your decision and it is not an excuse for any kind of harassment.
It’s disappointing to hear that the people closest to you do not seem to understand how it made you feel. I don’t know what your family is like, but if this is something that is affecting you so much, then you may want to try and explain yourself to them again. Let them know that you are hurt and you need their support.
Best,
Nicole