If you go online and look up packing lists (especially for girls), you find numerous upon numerous of links and ideas. Sweaters, shorts, cute headbands, riding boots, etc. The list goes on and on. However, there's one thing that is on every single list for a female.
Pepper spray.
I've always considered myself a "feminist". I believe that I deserve the same rights and to be held to the same standard as men around me. I believe that I shouldn't get dress coded in high school because you could see my shoulders. I believe that I shouldn't have to be on my guard when I'm on a date with a guy, fearing that he may take advantage of me.
It took me 5 days into being on campus until I had to deal with a situation that made me fear for my safety. Don't get me wrong, my school's campus safety is very well put into place and very accessible. But, that doesn't mean nothing will ever happen. Comments get made when walking past bus stops, people yell things out of cars, and some even stop you. You can't avoid it.
I was walking from my dorm to the local Walgreens (about 5 blocks away) and I was stopped by a man, much taller and larger than I. The conversation goes as follows.
"Excuse me, miss?"
"Oh, hello."
"How are you today?"
"I'm good. How are you?"
"Not so well. Hey. Are you filming me?"
"What? No." (This is where I started to feel uneasy)
"Wow. You're so cute. And so small." RED FLAG.
"Oh. I really have to go meet my friend for dinner. Sorry."
And I started walking away. The man reached to try and stop me and told me to "not be like that" and give him my number.
I have never felt so wronged in my life. I called my roommate after the incident and started crying. I can only imagine how another girl would have handled this situation. What would have happened if I didn't walk away when I did?
I should not have to fear for my safety when I'm around males. I shouldn't have to constantly think of ways on how to get out of situations like this. Situations like this shouldn't happen.
I shouldn't have to be lectured on constantly using the buddy system. I shouldn't have to call someone to walk a few blocks with me.
Instead of teaching women how to stay safe, we should start teaching men to be more aware of their actions. Realize what they're saying, how they say it, and how it affects those around them. That's what we teach girls, so why don't we set the same standard for males.
It's easier to stop things from happening before an act is put in to action.
***Also, to all kids on college campuses, stay safe. Be aware of your surroundings. You never know what can happen.
