Tell us a little bit about yourself.
I will be going into grade 12 this fall. I am a feminist, environmentalist, and flower child. I love operas, animals, and travels. I hope to change the world in a good way.
When did you start your account?
I started the account during late June of this year.
Why were you inspired to start an account?
I admired the movement that began in New York City. I wanted to become active myself and do all that I can supporting women and the feminist movement.
Why do you think “chalking back” is a good method to raise awareness?
“Chalking back” makes harassment as real for everyone who sees the chalk as the individual who originally experienced it. It brings awareness to the issue of street harassment to a mass group of people.
Why do you think ending street harassment is important?
All forms of harassment are destructive towards the victim of attack. Street harassment, mostly verbal harassment, is just as traumatic and humiliating as any other form of harassment.
what’s your favorite thing about your city?
Buffalo has such an amazing culture. There is a blossoming theater and arts district, as exhibited through the beautiful Sheas Performing Arts Center and the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra. The food in Buffalo is like no other too!
How can your city better address street harassment?
Buffalo could certainly bring greater awareness to the issue, most people do not recognize Street Harassment as an issue.
What do you hope is the outcome of your account?
I hope to bring a voice to anyone who has been a victim of street harassment and to bring an end to street harassment.
what’s the most difficult street harassment situation you’ve experienced? (if you feel comfortable sharing)
Last summer, I was vacationing in Rome, Italy with my family. While there, men over the age of 25 would whistle at me, shouting things at me in Italian, and make gestures towards me. I didn’t understand what the men were saying in Italian, but while walking into the Coliseum, a man said to me, “Come on, baby, you want me to show you around, beautiful? I’d tap that fat ass.”
What does being a part of this campaign mean to you?
Being a part of this campaign gives me a voice and a way to make a difference. I’m doing everything I can to make a difference in the world and am supporting other women and victims of Street Harassment through chalking. I am embracing the me too movement in being a feminist and encouraging people to follow.