Dear lovelies: Yesterday morning I walked to the studio of my friend @kristaramfitness for a workout. A short walk down a nice street, and on my way there three different men harassed me. There are compliments from strangers and then there are the sort of sexual remarks that make you feel cornered and frightened. These were that kind. The first time I remember hearing remarks like that from a man I was 12, and he was my teacher. I never told anyone because I felt confused and guilty and worried that somehow it was my fault, that I was responsible for the things he said. Years later I dated someone briefly and broke up with him when I discovered he was violent. He turned stalker, forcing me to upend my life, leave the state, seek shelter at my mom's on the opposite coast, and involve the police. These incidents are very much on my mind right now, not just because of the horrific things we're learning about one of the most powerful men in Hollywood, but because of similar stories I hear from you. Do not let anyone make you feel you're to blame for lewd, disrespectful, or violent behavior. Do not let anyone make you feel less than. Do not let anyone make you feel small. Do not let anyone make you question yourself. Do not let anyone silence you. If you are being harassed or harmed, speak up and out. Use your beautiful, strong voice. Together we can silence sexism, abuse, violence, and hate. Love, love, love, me π (Thank you @typicaltwila for this lovely tribute to Libby and Holding Up the Universe) #dayofthegirl #nomeansno #youarewanted #endsexism #girlpower #empowerment #endsexualviolence #lovenothate #lovenotfear
