Yesterday I had to explain to a man that starting an interaction with a blind woman by laughing loudly then announcing “I’ll grab the buggy” was really inappropriate.
Men you know if you’re a “nice safe dude” but please think how to communicate it with your words & actions.
Story ⬇️
Men you know if you’re a “nice safe dude” but please think how to communicate it with your words & actions.
Story ⬇️
Comments
Guide Dog Ava’s reaction I became aware the pavement a few feet ahead was blocked.
I slowed ready to go into the road.
Suddenly someone male sounding approached laughing really loudly & saying “oh dear oh dear!”
I could perceive the shape of the man so now he was close & I felt very worried.
And I cannot describe the vice like grip I clamped onto my buggy handle with in that moment.
I shouted “No!” & Ava turned sharply across in front of me & the buggy (she knows the word.) Again she was not happy with the vibes.
Finally the man explained he was jump starting a neighbours car & had blocked the pavement with his vehicle. He apologised.
I explained how his approach was really frightening & he needed to be aware that I was a blind woman alone in the evening. He was flabbergasted. Clearly totally unaware of his actions.
He probably panicked & felt awkward. Hence the manic laughing.
But I need men to be aware how frequently the same start to an interaction has ended with men assaulting me, harassing me, following me & yes even grabbing my buggy out of my hands.