Tell us a little bit about yourself.
My name is Amira and I live in Brussels for 17 years. I'm a true feminist and I love to have deep conversations (also with people that have a really different opinion than mine).
When did you start your account?
We started posting on our account since april 2019.
Why were you inspired to start an account?
Jennifer showed me @catcallsofnyc and we immediately wanted to create an account for Brussels.
Why do you think “chalking back” is a good method to raise awareness?
I think by chalking back we make people think about street harassment. Every day people have to live with discomfort just because catcalling is so normalised in our society. By chalking back we also give a voice to our sister, friend, neighbour, a stranger, anyone that has experienced street harassment.
Why do you think ending street harassment is important?
I think it's important because our whole life we learned that it's normal to get catcalled but we need to realise that it's not okay. We don't need to accept the fact that street harassment is a daily issue. The way humans treat each other can change.
What's your favorite thing about your city?
My favorite thing about Brussels is that it's so diverse. I'm so thankful to grow up in a city with so much different cultures because it really makes me open minded.
How can your city better address street harassment?
I think the police should pay more attention to street harassment and react when it happens.
What do you hope is the outcome of your account?
I hope that people are going to realise that catcalling is not normal and that it happens way too often (it should never happen). I also hope that by chalking back I can make the "victims" feel heared and understood.
What's the most difficult street harassment situation you’ve experienced?
A few years ago I was chilling in the park with Jennifer (the other owner of this acc) and a group of guys (most of them looked younger than us) came to us and started talking to us. They took a seat even though we clearly ignored them. Then they started to insult us and we got up and walked away.
What does being a part of this campaign mean to you?
It really means a lot to me which a honestly didn't expect. I feel like I'm a part of something big and important and that's really empowering.
