I had never really fed much into the whole party scene in high-school. I was usually just in my bed on Friday nights, and working night shifts on Saturdays. It was not until this past summer that I finally started going out with friends as an incoming college freshman. With that being said, I was not exposed to how the party scene really was....or how the catcalling and sexual harassing really was.
To start things off, I am going to say that I am aware that there is a possibility for men to be sexually harassed. However, since I am a woman, I can sadly say it happens more often than to us.
It all starts out around 5 or 6 o'clock. You're getting ready for the night with your girls, and all is well. The reality of getting ready before a night out is that you actually have to prepare and warn yourself about the possible dangers. Whatever people choose to use as an excuse to violate women, there is no excuse.
Violating women does not start or end in any circumstance.
It starts with a catcall.
It starts with an ass grab.
It starts with a tug at the waist.
It starts with what some boys think are "compliments," but are actually degrading remarks.
And no, me being on the dance floor does not mean I want to dance with you.
Unless I verbally announce that I would like to be danced with, don't you dare lay a finger on me or nasty word.
And why is it that boys will then be offended once rejected or when they are put in their place? It makes no sense to me. This is in no way bashing flirting, but there is a fine line between making a move and making an inappropriate sexual advance that is not being exchanged.
When a girl is dancing with her friends, she is dancing with her FRIENDS. It is so simple, but it does not seem to ever stick. I hope there is a future without the need to feel like you are surrounded by sexual harassment at all times.
And sure, people will blame party culture. But when it comes down to it, no means no. In every form, in every way.
