True Story

I saw this on another blog, and though it deserved a mention here, too. You can check out the supplying blog here: http://blog.lapetitefeministeanglaise.co.uk/ - it's definitely worth a read!

HollaBack

The other night I was waiting on a lift from my dad, and I was meeting him in George Square. So I stood on the corner ready to jump in the car in case he couldn't stop in the traffic. As I stood there, two guys about my age came past and one of them - a short, podgy, wee thing - asked if I was 'looking for business.' Now, I was well covered up in trousers, woollen cardi, and scarf and was clearly waiting for someone - in no way can I have looked like I was standing there waiting to be picked up for sex. So why did this rat-boy come up and say that to me?? At first I was so shocked I asked him to repeat what he said... and then I gave him hell. I said I was sorry if the only way he ever got to have sex was to pay for it, though I wasn't surprised as he was a bit of a runt, and then I asked why he thought that a woman standing on her own in a street must automatically be a hooker, and what the hell right he thought he had to harrass me the way he did? I think he was a bit taken aback but he also seemed quite pleased with himself. Even though it was just me and him, I'm sure he thought he'd given himself some kind of cred by approaching a 'hooker' and then obviously pissing off this woman who wasn't a hooker at all. Eventually he backed off, but I was a bit shaken up - though I must admit, when he reached his friend on the other side of the square and they both looked back at me (I knew they would), I was ready, and quite clearly and openly flipped them the finger. I quickly gave in to rage and wished I'd said more to the wee bastard - even thinking about it now, days later, I get so mad! - and said it louder, too! It wasn't until later, at home, that I remembered the Hollaback UK campaign - shaming any man that gives you hassle on the street, or anywhere else for that matter. I had my phone in my hand, and with 3 quick clicks I could have had his photo plastered on the internet for anyone to see. I cannot believe that I forgot about this in the heat of the moment, and although I'm glad I stood up for myself, I still feel I could have said and done more. Like kick him in the nuts in my epic 4-inch heels.

Next time, I will not forget and any sexist bull-shit merchant that gives me hassle on the street will be plastered all over the web before he's even finished harrassing me.

Hollaback indeed, and don't take any crap!

Clara xx