Last week, I went out for a walk with my friend around 11 PM. The atmosphere was incredibly peaceful, but I walked with a constant fear of harassment. I felt uneasy about every man that passed behind me, or maybe I'm exaggerating, I don't know. When do you think we women will be able to move freely without thinking about our safety?
I had taken a walk in Kadıköy at the same time last month as well. The weather was beautiful, but I froze when I heard two people whispering behind me. I remember pretending to send a voice note to my friend and quickly walking past.
If you're experiencing this level of stress constantly, I recommend carrying pepper spray. There are small ones that can easily fit in your bag. You'll be taking a step for your safety and it might give you a bit of courage as well.
Are we looking for this in just one society? Why are you going out at 11 PM? I'm a man, I don't go out at that time, for example. Maybe everyone should learn to be a little more careful.
The main issue isn't whether or not you have been harassed — it's actually the psychological burden of living with that constant fear. If this anxiety has become persistent, it might be helpful to work through this fear with a psychologist. Social change happens in the long term, but you can reduce this concern on an individual level.
You're right, I actually hadn't thought about tear gas at all. We couldn't walk for very long because of my fear, and at one point we turned back. Just bringing this topic up with someone even made me feel relieved.
A friend told me the other day, 'As a woman, if you're tall, you draw more attention; it's better to be short.' I got confused. So, some people think being short will reduce the risk of harassment.
I think the women walking at those hours are not just hesitant out of fear; there's also a bit of a show of courage against the environment. It's like saying, 'This street is mine too.' Honestly, it feels like there's a bit of that vibe.
By the way, the friend who said "why are you leaving?" seems to have misunderstood. Wanting to walk home at night is even a normal right. So should we wait for a society that doesn't harass us, instead of choosing an hour?
