Sexual Harassment in School Needs to Stop - Brenda's 20

She was relieved to have made it through another day without incident.

As soon as the bell rang, Brenda gathered her books and exited the classroom. She was relieved to have made it through another day without incident. But just as she stepped into the hallway, she heard someone call out her name. Turning around, she saw Tyson, a student and an athlete. She tried to ignore him and kept walking, but he stepped before her. "Niaje, Brenda," he said, grinning. "You're looking good today."

The compliments.

Brenda felt her stomach turn. She knew from experience that Tyson's compliments were never innocent. Last time, he had cornered her in the classroom and made inappropriate comments about her body. "Thanks, Tyson," she said, trying to keep her voice steady. "But I have to go. "As she tried to walk past him, Tyson stepped closer, blocking her way. "Come on, Brenda," he said, his tone more aggressive. "Don't be like that. I want to talk to you. "Brenda's heart was pounding in her chest. She knew she needed to get away, but she was trapped. She tried to push past him, but he grabbed her arm.

Tyson had become a struggle.

"Let go of me!" she yelled, but Tyson laughed. "Calm down, Brenda," he said, tightening his grip. "I just want to have a little fun. "Suddenly, the corridor was filled with other students, and Tyson let go of Brenda's arm. She ran away as fast as she could, feeling humiliated and ashamed.

Weeks after avoidance

For weeks after that, Brenda avoided Tyson and tried to blend in with the crowd. She didn't tell anyone what had happened, afraid they would blame or not believe her. But she couldn't forget the feeling of Tyson's hands on her arm or the look of satisfaction on his face as he held her captive. Brenda would still think back to that moment with anger and sadness.

Talking up

Brenda felt tired and decided to share what was happening with one of her teachers, whom she trusted. The teacher was able to listen and offer her support. I even recommended her see a therapist. I can say sexual harassment in school is all too common, and it can have a lasting impact on its victims. But she knew that she wasn't alone and that by speaking out and standing up to harassers, she could help make a difference. Find a person that you can trust because what people harass you want is to separate you from other people. So please speak up, even to one person, so the harassment can be stopped.