I am 19 and a few weeks ago I was on my way to work carrying a copy of my photography portfolio. I was standing in the train listing to my music and zoning out. Suddenly a hand taps my portfolio, a man who looked to be in his early 40s/late 30s was talking to me. I couldn’t here him because of my earphones. I took one out and he asked “So whats this?” “my photo portfolio.” I said already starting to feeling uncomfortable. “I know” he said, “I’m a photographer as well.”

Then he started asking me questions a lot of questions on and on. I was sending him every leave me alone single i know. I didn’t make eye contact. I spoke in unfriendly tone. Then he started to ask me if i wanted to go to some museums with him. I said no. He said “oh come on it will be fun”
I said I was going to work. This whole time I had been looking around the train. It was very full. That was the worst part. Just next to us two men were sitting, they both look uncomfortable, they tried to smile at me, but they never said anything. Behind them there were more faces wearing the same awkward guilty expression. They were all listing. They could all here what was happening, but no one stood up. It was so embarrassing I wanted to cry. The man asked me for my number an email. I should have said no. I guess i was just in such shock as how clueless he was. I just made up random numbers and emails and got off the train.

All i could think about was the people watching me and wondering if they new the numbers were fake, or if they also though I was stupid enough to give my contact information away. I know I should be able to stand up for myself, but I cant help be angry at all these people just sitting there, listing and judging and not doing anything.

Submitted by Anonymous on 7/31/2010

Location: Red Line

Time of Harassment: Morning Rush Hour (5A-9:30A)

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