Sexual Harassment is No Joke

It's FRIDAY! I'm a FEMINIST! And we're back with another ? FEMINISM FRIDAY ?! And this week, we’re discussing the harsh reality of SEXUAL HARASSMENT.

Yes, a cheery topic to brighten up your day... but one that is so bloody important because I've yet again seen comments on the internet this week that show men just do not get it.

So, here’s the brutal truth: most women experience sexual harassment before they even hit 16.

Yup, teenage girls are learning fast that their bodies aren’t their own when it comes to the world’s bullshit. And honestly? Many women can’t even count how many times it’s happened. From catcalls to unsolicited “dick pics,” it’s a never-ending cycle of unwanted attention.

The numbers are real, and they’re enraging. Rape Crisis defines sexual harassment as any unwanted sexual behaviour, and it’s everywhere — at work, in schools, on the street, and of course... online. It might be a one-off comment or repeated incidents, but the impact is the same. And for most of us, it starts way too young.

Remember, sexual harassment includes:

• Sexual comments or noises – for example, catcalling or wolf-whistling.
• Sexual gestures.
• Leering, staring or suggestive looks. This can include looking someone up and down.
• Sexual ‘jokes’.
• Sexual innuendos or suggestive comments.
• Unwanted sexual advances or flirting.
• Sexual requests or asking for sexual favours.
• Sending emails or texts with sexual content – for example, unwanted ‘sexts’ or ‘dick pics’.
• Sexual posts or contact on social media.
• Intrusive questions about a person’s private or sex life.
• Someone discussing their own sex life.
• Commenting on someone's body, appearance or what they’re wearing.
• Spreading sexual rumours.
• Standing close to someone.
• Displaying images of a sexual nature.
• Unwanted physical contact of a sexual nature – for example, brushing up against someone or hugging, kissing or massaging them.
• Stalking.
• Indecent exposure.
• Taking a photo or video under another person's clothing – what is known as 'upskirting'.

So, why don’t we talk about it more? Why is it so “normalised” that we’ve come to expect it, brushing it off like it’s just another shitty day? Spoiler: It’s NOT normal. Women deserve to feel safe, respected, and—dare I say it—comfortable in their own skin.

Men, if you think we're lying about this shit, then I'd suggest asking the women in your life two questions:

1. When was the first time you were sexually harassed?
2. How many times have you been sexually harassed since then?

I can guarantee, the majority will say "before 16" and "too many to count".

Girls, the next time someone tries to dismiss your discomfort, tell them to fuck off. Because no one should have to grin and bear it, especially when it’s sexual harassment. It’s time to take this seriously, call it out, and demand better.

Stay loud, stay angry, and keep fighting.

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