Tell us a little bit about yourself.
I’m 15 years old and my name is Ann. In my free time I enjoy painting and playing the guitar.
When did you start your account?
My best friend and I started this account two days ago when we realized how much harassment goes on in our small city.
Why were you inspired to start an account?
We were inspired to start this account because we want to raise awareness and want to have a safe place for everyone. People can talk to us anonymously so they won’t have to worry about being exposed or uncomfortable.
Why do you think “chalking back” is a good method to raise awareness?
“Chalking back” is definitely a great way to raise awareness because so many people usually don’t know what it is like or how it feels to be catcalled. “Chalking back” shows them a real experience of it even though it’s not much, it can make a huge impact.
Why do you think ending street harassment is important?
Ending street harassment is very important because it usually connects with sexual or domestic violence. It also happens so often that it’s being normalized.
What’s your favorite thing about your city?
My favorite thing about Sioux Falls is the Sculpture Walk! If you walk downtown in Sioux Falls there is a gorgeous selection of pieces. I enjoy looking at the craftsmanship and artistry.
How can your city better address street harassment?
Sioux Falls can help better street harassment by having more organizations about it rather than just leaving it be. Having more organizations can help raise awareness, help people who have been harassed, and to share or talk about their feelings.
What do you hope is the outcome of your account?
My hope for the account is to be able to help those who have been harassed and to spread the knowledge of what happens in Sioux Falls. A lot of people think that since Sioux Falls is a small city, it never happens.
What’s the most difficult street harassment situation you’ve experienced?
The most difficult street harassment I have ever experienced was when I was around 13, maybe. I was running on the sidewalk and a man in a car pulled up next to me and said, “You like running huh? How about you run to my house just around the corner and we can do something else that can get your heart rate up?” That was my first experience with street harassment and I was by myself. I had no idea what to do because I thought that it only happened in movies.
What does being a part of this campaign mean to you?
Being apart of this campaign means a lot to me because I have been dealing with harassment ever since I was a little girl. It wasn’t just street harassment but harassment within my family too. I would love to help other people who have experienced it because I know how awful and uncomfortable it is.
