This week I asked Her Campus at WLU members to answer the question “What would you do if you had no fear of men”. Participants were invited to answer regardless of gender. Some answers could be triggering for those who have experienced gender based violence. Answers have been edited for length or clarity and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of Her Campus, Her Campus WLU, or any of its members. If you have experienced inequities based on your gender, I encourage you to seek the appropriate resources, including, but not limited to, the Centre for Women and Trans People, Sarah Scanlon, and the Wellness Centre, to start.
1) Travel the world without worry of being approached by a man in a random place.
2) I’d be able to go back to my childhood safe place, which is also where I was sexually assaulted by my boyfriend. I haven’t been able to go back there since.
3) Stop faking orgasms
4) Feel comfortable going for a run at night or early in the morning.
5) Be okay going to the gym alone.
6) Walk home alone at night.
7) Sit wherever I want to on the bus.
8) Not feel like I need to apologize constantly.
9) Yell at the top of my lungs about feminism all day long without fear of a man calling me a man-hater because they CLEARLY do not know what feminism means.
10) Rule the world.
11) Wear anything I want.
12) Let myself fall in love again.
13) Have more fun when I was drunk.
14) Change the world be more comfortable
15) Be able to speak up more in my tutorial without fearing of someone (unintentionally most times) talking over me and my points.
16) Go into government.
17) Walk confidently by myself in the evening and late at night.
18) Honestly, I’d go out to more social events that take place in casual bars or high end clubs. I’m often worried to leave my drink unattended or having to err on the side of caution of how my wardrobe might influence unwanted advances. The party scene sends a clear message to women: avoid alcohol and dressing a certain way in order to prevent sexual harassment. I’m forever hoping that I get the opportunity to enjoy social outings more that take place in these environments without the fear of cat calls and the constant sexualization of my gender.
19) Speak up without fear of ridicule or being spoken over.
20) Have more confidence to voice my opinions.
21) Have more confidence to wear what I want.