I count myself lucky to have avoided more serious sexual harassment, but even with “doing everything right” (basically being a non-sexual amoeba), I still had males treat me with less than the respect I deserve as a human being.
There were a few incidents in the past, but I had the dubious honor of having the following encounter with some young men:
They were visitors to our house: 3 young men, I’mma guess high school age? At first they asked if a “Ben” lived here; I said no, sorry. Instead of leaving, they confirm the address and elaborate, “Ben doesn’t live here? Ben Dover?” Props to the guy trying to give a nonchalant performance, but his friends couldn’t help but snicker. I never have smart retorts and just wanted them to leave, so I repeated that he doesn’t live here and closed the door.
I just.. I didn’t know what to say. Though I wonder if they knew a woman lived in this house or if they just randomly picked houses. This is so mild, all things considered. But I was and am sad. They’re so young and yet humiliating women is already considered a fun sport.
I hope I won’t have to add any new stories, but I’m so glad to have found this site!