Today I got off the train and I was walking into the centre of Manchester. There was a Man at the side of the street and he looked cheery like he was joking about something, telling people to buy this mans local produce (the man was selling cakes and pies and northern stuff!). I smiled at him, because I thought it was funny. The man walked up towards me and started speaking to me so I took my headphones out. He told me he bought this pie especially for me and I said no thank you and walked on. He continued to follow me and walk by my side (I have had this happen before, people trying to keep up your pace), and started saying he was new to the UK from Jamaica and I had to listen to him and get on with him because of that reason. I asked him to let me walk on my own, and that I didn’t need or want any company. He didn’t. Then, when I walked off, he was yelling things like “nice ass baby I love everything about you you’re unreal” etc etc.
I told my temper big time, and started to shout. I really wanted to be heard by everyone around me. I didn’t want to shake it off this time. I yelled at him and I caused a big scene! I think this is where big change happens. I felt safe in a crowded place that I could yell my opinion.
I was pretty shaken up after from all the adrenaline, but then after a while started laughing to myself for ages- I am not sure why. Maybe because for the first time ever I shouted louder than the male saying abusive degrading stuff.
I feel angry but also proud of how I reacted.