How many times have you felt uncomfortable by inappropriate jokes?
Been sexually harassed, grew up in the streets...
Made to feel like a sex object.
Belittled, shamed, removed of all dignity.
Unfortunately, for many, this is everyday reality.
This type of behavior happens all too often and we're all aware of it happening yet choose to ignore it blindly.
What does that say about our society?
How many times have you told yourself, "It's fine. Nothing's going to change. I'm used to it."
And what kind of effect does that kind of attitude have on our future kids?
I know it's hard but it's so important that we speak up and admit... that there's something really wrong here...
And that sexual assault exists.
How dare you touch me inappropriately?
Look at me up and down like I'm some piece of meat.
Invading my personal space.
Putting your unwanted hands on my body.
Not even processing the thought that... maybe... just maybe... that might not be okay with me...
I'll never understand how some people feel the need to touch everything they see.
It's insane to me.
You're a grown man.
How do you fail to understand that my body is not public property?
I'm not here for your pleasure.
You don't get to do with me as you please.
Even if I'm walking around stark, naked, drunk, out of my mind... you still don't get to touch me.
And the sad fact is, this type of behavior happens regularly.
So much so that some people have become desensitized to it.
It happens so often that it's become an accepted part of reality.
You finally build the courage to report the incident only to see that the people in power don't even take it seriously.
Because apparently, sexual assault isn't seen as much of a priority.
Are you actually kidding me...
And if that wasn't bad enough, then comes a victim shaming.
"Well, it wasn't really my fault. Did you see what she was wearing? She had her skin showing and a tight skirt on."
Let's be real here.
Who can really blame him...? (There's major sarcasm in that if you couldn't tell.)
And then, the shame sinks in.
You start to cover up.
Go quiet...
Don't bring attention to yourself because you don't want to encourage it.
But then you start thinking, "Maybe it was my fault. Maybe I do bring attention to myself."
Overthink it so much till the self hate hits.
Consent is not based on how someone is dressed.
And no, a "Maybe." does not equal a "Yes."
This is basic common sense but I guess the way society is going, people tend to expect less.
Which is why it's so hard for so many people to confess that they are a victim of assault.
Society has shamed them to the point where they start to believe... maybe it is their fault.
Which is terrifying because we're not talking about the actions of children here.
We're talking about grown adults.
All I ask is for respect and privacy and not to be catcalled and groped when I walk down the street.
To feel safe and in control of my own body and not have to put up with everyday misogyny.
I just want to be treated like an actual human being...
Is that really too much to ask in [2019]?
I shouldn't have to go [anywhere] and feel insecure and ashamed.
Made to feel like how I dressed was a reason to blame.
That's not okay.
If we truly want to bring an end to this, the only effective solution is to educate where that means schools or at home, teach your kids the correct way to behave and make them understand that touching people without consent is far from okay.
It's only with discipline and education will we see the social attitude change and hopefully eradicate.
Throughout time, objectification of our bodies have been normalized and it's time people realize that we're human beings with thoughts and rights.
We will not put up for this anymore.
I will fight for what is rightfully mine.
Go up there and be bold.
Make noise.
Take a stance.
We will no longer hide.
We will take control of our bodies and we'll own it with pride.
We will not be belittled or shamed anymore.
Not now.
Not tomorrow.
Or any other time.
