A Woman Shares Outfit That ‘Triggered’ Street Harassment

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If you’re a woman who’s ever strolled down a public street, you probably know the uncomfortable feeling of street harassment. One woman, who had a particularly unsettling encounter on her way to the train, decided to share a picture of her outfit to counter the “you asked for it” remarks that are all too common.

Maya Johnson posted a snapshot of herself in brown leggings, a cozy parka, knee-high boots, and a large scarf. But honestly, it shouldn’t matter what she was wearing. Street harassment isn’t about a woman’s clothing choices; it’s about a power struggle. It’s about someone believing they have the right to invade your personal space and dictate your reaction.

Maya recounted, “This is what I was wearing today as I navigated through a bustling subway station, and a man walked by and shouted, ‘Wow, you’ve got amazing legs!’” When she chose to ignore him and kept walking, he followed her, insisting, ‘Did you hear me, darling? I said you have nice legs. Thanks!’

It was the “thanks” that struck her as absurd. As if her covered skin was somehow a gift for him, neatly wrapped in brown tights, existing solely for his enjoyment.

What gives someone the right to demand interaction from a stranger on the street? That level of entitlement is astounding. Here’s a little nugget of wisdom: you can’t force a stranger to engage with you—ever.

Women get this. We don’t go around “complimenting” men and expecting them to be grateful for our scattered words. The truth is, these men don’t genuinely want a conversation; they expect a smile in return, as if they’ve just delivered the most original compliment ever.

The endless expectation that women must maintain a man’s fragile ego is draining. It’s infuriating, and it’s why women are so tired of street harassment.

Maya poignantly added, “Next time you question whether your skirt is too short, or if you ask your teenage daughter to change her outfit, or hear about school dress codes, remember this photo. I’m in a parka and boots, and it. doesn’t. matter.”

Every time we brush off a girl being disciplined for a “dress code violation,” we contribute to the idea that women’s appearances are open for public scrutiny. Most of those so-called “dress code violations” are utterly ridiculous—a bare shoulder, a knee, or even a bra strap. Who cares? But we perpetuate the belief that girls should feel ashamed of their bodies, fearing harassment or even worse.

So, next time you hear about a woman facing harassment or a teen being reprimanded for their outfit, pay attention to your reaction. If your instinct is to say “no big deal” or “she shouldn’t have worn that,” it’s time to reconsider your stance. You might unintentionally be sending a harmful message to the next generation.

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In summary, Maya’s experience highlights a frustrating reality for many women: street harassment is never about their clothing but rather about a power dynamic that needs to change.