Any woman who has ever walked anywhere in her life has most likely been catcalled. Although us ladies have to hear lewd and unwelcome hoots and hollers as we go about our daily chores, we can choose to react differently – even creatively – to street harassment.

1. Ignore them

It is perfectly acceptable to just ignore a person whom is catcalling you. This tends to be my “go to” approach with street harassers. When I am walking or running, I to listen to music, so this reaction, or non-reaction, is easiest for me. Sometimes, though, if the person is on the same side of the street and I can clearly hear what he is saying, I turn down my music or podcast to clearly hear what he says. That way, if he threatens me, I can easily call the police.

2. Respond with education

IHollaBack.org, a nonprofit that collects various women’s street harassment stories, suggests that if you do decide to react to street harassers’ calls, use the following advice:

Be firm: Respond clearly and calmly and explain why the comment is rude. Or simply say, “that is not OK.” Whatever you choose to say, don’t start passively. The organization says that phrases, such as “I’m sorry, but,” and “excuse me, sir,” should be avoided.

If your street harasser tries to engage you further, don’t take the bait. Just walk away. Engaging in further debate could lead to more harassment.

Stop Street Harassment, another non-profit, has some great advice on how to address street harassers, too.

3. Ask them why they cat call

Lindsey, a 28-year-old Minneapolis woman, has experienced catcalling quite a lot. So, she decided to start asking men why they catcall, and began filming each man’s response. It’s quite interesting, really. Lindsey also created “Cards Against Harassment,” a series of cards printed with various explanations as to why catcalling is so inappropriate.

If you still need some reaction inspiration, take a look at this Huffington Post article that lists 13 awesome reactions people have had to street harassers. Some of them are choice.

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Image: Jes

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