I was out taking a walk today during my break in between zoom meetings. I looked over my shoulder & a gentleman was following me. Followed me for about half a block before I stopped & asked him what I could do for him. He told me that he saw me walking and knew he was destined to marry me. This man definitely had some mental health issues–he said an angel in the form of a fly told him this. But he proceeded to engage me in a 10+ min dialogue about how attractive my body, specifically my breasts were. I told him I would not marry him & needed to leave, but he kept engaging me. Finally, I walked away only to have him follow me two blocks to my house. I had to get my property manager (who lives next door) to speak with him to get him to leave the premises. I did not want to call the police because of the fact that this man was black, an immigrant, houseless, & experiencing mental illness. Patriarchy’s effects are super intersectional, and it was important for me to take into account his context in my response to him. He eventually left & did not see what apartment house I live in, thankfully. Such a jarring experience–I have never been followed before. I tried not to panic & was holding back tears. I feel very resolved & safe now but wanted to share this experience. Thank you for the important work Every Day Sexism does!!
