Fighting Sexual Harassment online

It is particularly important to start fighting sexual harassment online. There are 7 billion people on this planet and the internet enables us to reach a huge majority of these people. Moreover it can also make victims feel happier to know they are not alone in their struggles against sexual harassment. The definition of sexual harassment according to Cambridge dictionary is “unwanted or offensive sexual attention, suggestions, or talk, especially from an employer or other person in a position of power.” If a man or a woman experience anything that falls under this definition, however minor it may seem; It is still sexual harassment. Because the internet is such a huge platform there are plenty of places to seek help.

Where to find help:

•  There are countless blogs just like mine where you can seek guidance and refuge. Furthermore it is comforting knowing that someone understands what you are going through. Stop Street Harassment is a website/blog where people have written about their experiences when it comes to sexual harassment.
• The Everyday Sexism Project created by Laura Bates is a website I use frequently. As a result of her experience with sexism in the workplace she proceeded to create the everyday sexism project. The website enables anyone to share their everyday experiences which they deem as sexist. The fact that you can do this openly or anonymously means it appeals to everyone. However scrolling through the amount of post’s that get uploaded to the website everyday is deeply saddening.
• There are also specific websites where taking action is the main objective. Citizen’s advice is a clearly structured website based in the UK telling victims everything they need to know when reporting sexual harassment.
• If you’ve never personally been affected by this topic but feel passionate about trying to help there are various charities which offer volunteering opportunities. Victim Support is a independent charity based in the UK. They help those who have been affected by crime or traumatic events.

These are just a handful of places where anyone can go online to talk about sexual harassment. More importantly by expressing anxieties online is a huge step forward to help fight against sexual harassment. The more men and women talk about this issue  more people will become aware that there is a problem that needs to be faced. To conclude, the best thing that can be done as a generation is to not be afraid to speak out. Finally the internet lets voices be heard.

Helplines:

If the internet isn’t somewhere you feel comfortable discussing this issue there are a number of helplines which deal with sexual harassment.

Equality and Human Rights Commission – Sexual Harassment

Helpline England: 0845 604 6610

NHS Choices – What should I do immediately after a sexual assault or rape?

NHS Direct Helpline: 0845 46 47

Victim Support

Supportline: 0845 30 30 900

Survivors UK – Male Rape and Sexual Abuse Support

National Helpline: 0845 122 1201

National Stalking Helpline

Helpline: 0300 636 0300

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