This is an ode to all women who have ever walked down a street and were bugged, harassed, approached, hurt, snickered at, kidnapped, abused by the remarks and actions of men unwanted. This is the violence we want to end-amongst many others. Having to police our bodies daily has left invisible scars upon our souls. This is also a response to all my man friends who say, in response to my complaints about being harassed incessantly by unwanted men“why do you girls complain, I’d love all the attention, tell the truth, you secretly love it right?”. The answer is No. Not today, tomorrow or yesterday. I am not flattered or enticed. And, no, it is not always fun walking in my shoes. So, no, this cannot be a joke. In fact, I am angry. Angry at the silent and outspoken forms of oppression and violence that women survive daily. This is only one story amongst many.

Lora says it can be very painful at first
Lora says as time goes, the pain goes as well
Lora says sometimes it is cruel and rough
Lora says it is risky and dangerous
Lora says I should try it sometime
Betty says every teenager is doing it
Betty says it makes you feel cool and secure
Betty says it makes a relationship last
Betty says it is so exciting
Betty says I am a dummy because I have not done it