Let's set the record straight.
Catcalling isn't a compliment. In fact, it's a form of sexual harassment.
Some people may argue that catcalling isn't a form of sexual harassment but according to Merriam-Webster, sexual harassment is an uninvited and unwelcome verbal or physical behavior of a sexual nature.
Although some women may feel flattered by the whistles and sexual comments made towards them, not all women feel the same way. When we're in public and get catcalled in front of everyone, it makes us feel uncomfortable and self-conscious because everyone's' eyes are on us and we're forced in the unwanted spotlight.
"Why don't you ignore them?"
It's easier said than done. Imagine trying to ignore a guy or even a group of guys, whistling and hollering unwanted comments at you while checking you out. It's an uncomfortable and undesirable situation to be put in because you know that they're looking for a reaction out of you. If we don't give them the reaction they want, they'll keep trying to get your attention or they'll start sending you hostile comments such as "dumb b**ch," "slut", "ugly", etc. But if we do give them the wanted reaction, then they got what they want ,and us women don't like that because that single guy or the group of guys are trying to make themselves the dominant person in the situation. It's almost like a reminder that us women aren't as dominate as men are and we're just put into this "man's world" just for their entertainment.
It's bizarre that we're in the 21st century and still feel the need to constantly check over our shoulders or bring a friend with us to make sure we have a less chance of being harassed. We shouldn't feel the need to be worried about guys catcalling us on our appearance and attire when we're out in public for a night out or even to a short trip to the grocery store. We're never asking to be catcalled. In fact, our appearance or attire shouldn't even provoke someone to convey sexual remarks towards us in the first place. These comments aren't going to boost our self-confidence. News flash! We, women, find confidence within ourselves.
Unfortunately, the last catcall we received won't be the last catcall we'll get. But all we can do at this point is to hopefully remind other people the difference between a catcall and a compliment and to not let the harassment continue.
