In light of the powerful resurgence of the #metoo movement, initiated by Tarana Burke, I have come to reflect on my own experiences with sexual harassment. At the age of 13, I faced unwanted advances from a classmate—an uninspired boy who felt entitled to claim my body. I vividly remember the frustration and disgust I felt as he groped me in the crowded hallways of our middle school. Thankfully, I was never alone with him, and our encounters were limited to public spaces filled with others.
It dawns on me now that this boy likely never learned the concept of consent or the significance of the word “no.” Despite my attempts to fend him off with shouts and physical resistance, he seemed oblivious to my distress. I realize that, compared to many others, my situation was relatively mild. I have never faced more severe forms of assault, nor have I lived in constant fear for my safety. I recognize this as a form of privilege.
However, I also lacked the tools to advocate for myself. I didn’t know that I had options beyond merely trying to escape his grasp while juggling an armful of books.
Protecting Our Children
As a parent, the issue of sexual assault weighs heavily on my mind. How can I ensure that my sons are protected from potential predators? Is there a guaranteed method for allowing them to attend sleepovers without worry? How do I determine who is trustworthy? I often check the sex offender registry when moving to a new area and tend to be more cautious than most about where they spend their time. I find myself awkwardly monitoring them around unfamiliar people, striving to keep them safe.
But equally important is teaching them how to protect themselves. I emphasize the proper names for body parts and explain appropriate and inappropriate touch. I encourage them to be assertive and to seek help from trusted adults when needed.
Breaking the Cycle
As the stories of abuse continue to emerge, I find myself grappling with another challenge: How do I prevent my sons from becoming those men? It’s an immense responsibility to teach young, energetic children about respect and boundaries while they are primarily focused on play and exploration.
I feel ill-equipped for this task. While I strive to set a good example and discuss the importance of respecting others, I recognize that I may not fully grasp the subtle ways in which we perpetuate disrespect toward bodily autonomy. Yet, I persist in my efforts, acknowledging that I am not perfect.
The #metoo movement has sparked a collective awareness of these issues, and as a parent, it propels me to take action to ensure my children grow up to embody the message of #notme. It compels me to equip them with the knowledge and respect for others’ well-being, fostering an environment where they will feel safe and supported if they ever need to express their own experiences of assault.
As mothers, we may not be able to erase the prevalence of the #metoo stories, but we can influence the next generation, nurturing a culture that champions respect and accountability.
Additional Resources
For additional insights into home insemination and parenting, check out our post on the home insemination kit. If you’re looking for expert advice on workplace wellness, visit Intracervical Insemination. And for comprehensive information on intrauterine insemination, the Cleveland Clinic is an excellent resource.
In summary, as parents, we must actively work to ensure our children grow up with the values and understanding that will help create a safer world for everyone. By doing so, we can help foster a generation that stands against the cycle of harassment and assault.