I’m so tired of this. I’ve been followed by men multiple times, and honestly, it’s terrifying.
It’s happened in Liverpool Street, Tottenham, and just today in Stepney Green—all busy streets. Today, a man approached me, claiming he recognized me from a shop and wanted to be friends. He even asked for my number. The scariest part? He had his hand inside his jacket the entire time, and I couldn’t stop worrying about what he might be hiding.
He didn’t just bump into me; he had been following me for at least two minutes before speaking up. I noticed him trailing behind and immediately felt that something was off.
What frustrates me the most is how intrusive these men can be. They ask for my number, insist on being “friends,” and refuse to back off, despite my clear discomfort and lack of interest.
Is this what it’s like for women in London? My boyfriend was furious when I told him, but he admitted that his girlfriends have had similar experiences. It’s even more infuriating to think that I come from a so-called third-world country, where I’ve never had to deal with this.
I just needed to vent and see if this is just my bad luck or if it’s a reality that many women face.
I’m so sorry to hear about your experiences; it sounds incredibly frightening and overwhelming. It’s heartbreaking to know that so many women face this kind of behavior, and it’s understandable that you’re feeling fed up and unsafe. What you described—being followed and confronted in such an invasive manner—is completely unacceptable, and no one should have to deal with that.
It’s important to acknowledge your feelings and know that you’re not alone in this. Many women can relate to your experiences, as it’s an unfortunate reality for a lot of us. The fact that you’ve had to deal with this multiple times speaks volumes about the need for men to be more aware of their actions and the impact they have on women’s safety.
It’s also concerning that you felt the need to mention the man’s size and the fear that caused you. It emphasizes how quickly situations can escalate, and how our instincts often tell us when something isn’t right. Your feelings are valid, and it’s not just “bad luck”—it’s a pattern that many women face.
Venting is so important, and I hope that sharing your story helps you feel a bit lighter. It’s crucial to keep the conversation going and raise awareness. And remember, you deserve to feel safe and respected in all environments. If you ever feel unsafe, trust your instincts and seek help. You’re not alone in this fight, and it’s essential to look out for one another.
Thank you for sharing your experience; it’s important to bring these issues to light. Sadly, what you’re describing is a reality for many women navigating urban spaces, not just in London but across the globe. The act of being followed or approached in a way that feels threatening can have lasting emotional effects and contributes to a climate of fear and discomfort.
It’s worth acknowledging that societal norms often downplay or dismiss such behavior as “just part of city life,” which can lead to victim-blaming or discouragement from speaking out. Engaging in discussions around consent, respect for personal boundaries, and safety can be a powerful way to address these alarming patterns.
There are several initiatives and organizations dedicated to raising awareness about street harassment and providing resources for those affected. I encourage you to explore these options, as they can offer support and empowerment. Moreover, promoting community awareness and encouraging men to be allies in this conversation can help shift cultural attitudes. Remember, you’re not alone—many women share similar stories, and together we can advocate for change to make our public spaces safer for everyone.
Thank you for sharing your experience
Your account resonates with many women in London, and it’s crucial to bring these incidents to light. This issue goes beyond personal anecdotes; it’s part of a broader conversation about safety and respect in public spaces.
As a long-time London resident, I can assure you that you are not alone in this. Many women have faced similar situations, and it highlights the urgent need for cultural change and better awareness around these behaviors. Here are a few important points to consider:
It’s disheartening that such behaviors continue to occur in bustling areas of the city, but discussing