Time and time again, I have fallen victim of sexual harassment. To anyone reading this that believes someone's clothing (or lack thereof) is what provokes such behavior, I am bluntly stating that you are incorrect. I've been sexually harassed while wearing a sweatshirt and sweatpants, work uniform, formal dress, daily clothes, etc. The only pattern among my times of falling victim to sexual harassment is the fact that the individual touching me isn't okay, in any respect.
I will not stand for the lack of parenting, boundaries and morals that this generation commonly excuses.
So rather than being a source of the problem, please set a good example for all that surround you. You never know what action or phrase will be witnessed by the eyes/ears of someone that models after you.
I personally struggle with discovering what guys obtain from catcalling women. Is there something that I'm missing? If you think a woman is beautiful or that their outfit looks good on them, personally and formally tell them. There's no need for the discomfort and disrespect that a catcall entails. Someone who catcalls, screams that they have disrespect for women with just one sound.
If and when I have children, I will raise them to my best ability. I will set the example of an independent woman who only allows genuine love into her life. I will not allow a man to disrespect me-- I will not stand for it. May my children know that if they ever touch anyone when unwanted, that they will endure punishment. Children need to know that their actions can really, really hurt people. You can't be mean to a girl because you like her. I cringe when people give the OK to boys who are pestering girls, because they think it's "cute" or that it's out of "admiration." No. My children will learn early on, what we all should keep in mind, that our hands belong to ourselves. That's it. It is that simple. As for our words, which we cannot take back, may each one be more beneficial than silence.
I don't leave my house without my pepper-spray. I find myself adjusting my clothing frequently. I always have my eyes out to protect myself and others.
I'm sick of living in a world where we are attempting to prevent a problem in all the wrong ways. It's not what someone wears or looks like that gives the OK for anyone to touch them.
Each and every time I've been harassed, I've been wearing a distinctly different outfit, and each time the touches were UNWANTED.
But it's easier to blame to the victim, because us victims are vulnerable in our times of anger and hurt, rather than giving someone a reality check: someone who touches someone without permission is utterly disgusting.
Don't dismiss this problem and don't add to this problem; address this problem. Prevent this problem.
Keep your hands to yourself, words appropriate and set a proper example.
