I performed as the only woman at an open mic, which is its own bad story. One comedian was so blatantly misogynist, but thought he was funny and meta, that I had to go outside to save myself from that toxic environment of drunk guys cheering him on and women looking away politely.
Outside the club, I got street harassed by two guys, throwing at me dirty looks, kisses and commenting my appearance. Even though I was alone, I talked back at them, “Stop harassing me, stop making women feel uncomfortable, don’t comment on my looks, leave me alone.”
I could see in their eyes that they didn’t expected my answers.
One then insulted me, “Bitchy, psycho, can’t take a compliment” and got so close I was afraid he was going to hurt me. He also said I was a racist (he said, he’s from another country). Three men passed by and LAUGHED at the situation of him threatening me. I felt like I was the only person on earth. I felt so hurt and alone.
I went back inside the club, because it’s dark in there, to go into the restroom and cry. Yes, a comic, who just made an entire room laugh, cries on the toilet.
I went back outside with swollen eyes because I wanted to just leave, but people held me up telling me how great my set was. I excuse my swollen eyes “because of allergies”. No one knew. Who could I have told this?
I cycled back home and got aggressively catcalled once more, alone in the dark street by a group of three men. I just wanted to be home and wash myself and, at that moment, die. My boyfriend texted me, “Are you sure it was this bad or bit of hormones as well”
Now, after getting this off my chest here, I’m writing my next comedy set to make people laugh again.
– Anonymous
Location: Outside a comedy show
Share your street harassment story for the blog.
See the book 50 Stories about Stopping Street Harassers for more idea.
