Social media sent frenzied waves of disbelief and resentment as Egypt found itself under the spotlight yet again for the wrong reasons. Sparking national outrage was the attack of Somaya Tarek, a 20-year-old college student was sexually harassed and physically assaulted at a Cairo Mall. Thousands of Egyptians condemned the actions of the perpetrator, who is yet to be arrested or charged. Societal norms dictate that these incidents remain secretive as not to tarnish the victim’s name. Consequently, Tarek courageously sought out the media to tell her story and demand justice.

Egyptian society has always been separated on the issues of sexual harassment and assault, some maintaining that victims are at fault while others reprimanding the offenders; coincidentally, Egyptian media is no exception to this divide. While many media personnel sympathized with Tarek, it was ironic that the backlash came from a female presenter. Although claiming to be an open-minded feminist, television host Reham Saeed blatantly victim shamed Tarek by airing personal photos that might give the impression that Tarek was "asking for it."

Studies show that a startling 99 percent of Egyptian women have been sexual harassment victims. In many Middle Eastern societies, a woman’s body does not fully belong to herself – it belongs to the family. Women are not free, and double standards are a part of the unfair reality. Furthermore, victim shaming is an unwelcomed guest that accompanies many incidents of sexual harassment or sexual assault. Society often turns a cold shoulder on the desperate cries seeking justice.

The negative responses to sexual harassment incidents highlight the ignorance that continues to penetrate the weak progressive walls of Egyptian’s society. It is ironic that Egypt preaches the significance of women, often emphasizing their value and their worth. Although I have an empowering and progressive family, I cannot help but despise double standards that are often upheld for the validation of protection and safety.

To be quite honest, I don’t feel respected or valued in a culture that is dominated by the patriarchy. A society that blames the victim is one that stands against the advancement of itself. These strong sentiments are echoed by the experiences that tarnish the good in any situation. Who knows where this stemmed from?

Maybe it was the time the middle-aged man in boxers wouldn’t stop leering from across the balcony, taking pictures on his cellphone. He had daughters my age.

Maybe it was the time when my 15-year-old sister was followed back to her hotel room because a 27 year old just wanted to say "hi."

Maybe it was the time when, at 20 years old, I felt the safest when accompanied by my 13-year-old male cousin.

Maybe it was the time when I was riding a bike and a group of guys thought it would be funny to cut me off with their car.

Maybe it was the time when a black Benz lurked behind my sister and me, and he popped a asking how much we charged an hour and if there was a group discount.

Maybe it was the time when I was told how tight my jeans were.

Maybe it was the time when I was told how short my dress was.

Maybe it was the time when I was told how seductive my perfume was.

Maybe, just maybe, it was the time when I realized I am a second-class citizen.