If you ever find yourself feeling unsafe, it’s important to report it. Recently, I stayed in a hostel for a week and one night found myself in an uncomfortable situation. I was in bed reading when a man came into the dorm. I was giving him one-word answers, trying to show that I wasn’t interested in talking, but he didn’t catch my cues. He then insisted I get out of bed so he could “demonstrate” something he learned in Tango class. I thought this would get him to stop, but it only made things worse. He immediately tried to kiss me and, despite my protests, kept trying to get me to agree. Finally, he gave in and left, but I was shaken and not sure what to do next.
It can be incredibly embarrassing and intimidating to be on the receiving end of unwanted sexual attention. It can also be difficult to know whether or not to report it. Will anyone believe you? Will they think you’re being overly dramatic? Is this kind of behavior normal? After doing some research, I decided to report it and, thankfully, my hostel immediately moved me to a private room. This showed me that they take sexual harassment seriously.
It’s important to remember that being made to feel unsafe is not normal. If someone is making you feel uncomfortable or scared, it’s important to report it and get the help you need. Don’t be afraid to speak up and stand up for yourself. It’s never okay to be in a situation where you feel unsafe.