Alicia Menendez, an MSNBC anchor, articulated a universal truth shared by many women: “The narrative of Sarah Everard embodies the fears that too many women have… A stark reminder that no amount of vigilance, personal choices, or sensible footwear can help a woman escape a system that does not prioritize her safety.”
What Does the #TextMeWhenYouGetHome Hashtag Mean?
In a world overflowing with trending hashtags, #TextMeWhenYouGetHome stands out as a poignant phrase that resonates deeply with trans and cis women, as well as non-binary individuals globally. It’s the phrase we share with friends when saying goodbye, a comforting ritual that acknowledges the dangers that lurk outside, whether we’re driving in our cars or walking alone.
Why is it that we must reassure each other of our safe arrival home? Why is there such a pervasive threat to those who present as female? Why is the burden of safety placed on women instead of the broader society?
One Instagram user, @claireharrison, expressed her feelings perfectly: “I can’t articulate how many women are thinking about Sarah Everard. The idea that a woman can’t even walk home is simply unbearable.”
Why Does #TextMeWhenYouGetHome Resonate?
Many have pointed out that Everard did everything “right” — she wore bright clothing, left at a reasonable hour, chose well-lit, familiar streets, and even spoke to her boyfriend on the phone during her walk. Women everywhere are especially shaken by this incident because we strive to keep our friends informed about our whereabouts, share plans, and set check-in times that allow friends to act quickly if something goes wrong. We often mention to dates or taxi drivers that family or roommates are expecting us home by a certain time, as if to affirm that our absence would be noted. We are not expendable; we will be missed.
A friend recently recounted how she provided her 11-year-old daughter with pepper spray and taught her how to use it. When her husband learned of this, he questioned whether the child should even be in situations that would necessitate such a precaution. My friend was understandably frustrated. She has been educating her daughter about safety since birth in a world that often views women—especially women of color—as disposable.
It’s maddening that in 2021, women’s experiences continue to be dismissed, and we are still crafting makeshift safety nets. It’s disheartening to think that if the safety of white men were at stake, this would not even be a discussion. Until change occurs, we’ll continue to rely on hashtags for awareness.
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In summary, the ongoing conversation about Sarah Everard and the #TextMeWhenYouGetHome initiative highlights the urgent need for societal change regarding women’s safety. This movement serves as a reminder of the pervasive fears women face in their daily lives and the importance of continuing the dialogue about violence against women.