The resurgence of the #metoo movement, initiated by Tarana Burke, has brought to light the unsettling reality that many individuals, like myself, have faced harassment during formative years. Reflecting on my experience in 8th grade, I recall being subjected to unwanted advances from a fellow student who felt entitled to invade my personal space. His blatant actions of groping and grabbing left me feeling violated and powerless. Thankfully, I always had witnesses around, so my experiences, while distressing, were not as severe as what many others have endured.
It’s clear now that this boy had never truly grasped the concept of consent or the importance of boundaries. In the bustling hallways of our average suburban school, I would shout and push back, trying to reclaim my autonomy. Yet, he remained oblivious to my protests, firmly believing he had a right to my body.
While I recognize my experience pales in comparison to the more harrowing stories shared by others, it nonetheless left me feeling unprepared to defend myself. I lacked the tools to halt this harassment and felt trapped under the weight of my textbooks while defending my dignity.
Parental Concerns
As a parent, the concern over sexual assault is always at the forefront of my mind. How can I safeguard my children against predators? Is there a guaranteed way to ensure their safety during sleepovers? When we consider places like schools, community centers, and sports events, it becomes daunting to determine where they are truly safe. Will my instincts be sufficient to keep danger at bay?
I make it a point to consult the sex offender registry whenever we relocate. I tend to be more cautious than others regarding my children’s environments, often checking in on them during interactions with unfamiliar adults. I do my best to protect them.
Educating Our Children
Additionally, I strive to educate my children on how to protect themselves. I use the correct terminology for body parts and explain who has the right to touch them and under what circumstances. I encourage them to be assertive and confident enough to defend themselves if someone poses a threat, and to seek help from a trusted adult once they are safe.
With the continuation of the #metoo movement, I often find myself pondering, “How can I ensure my sons do not become part of this troubling narrative?” Teaching young boys—who currently seem more interested in robots and dinosaur stamps—the importance of respecting others’ boundaries is a monumental task. It’s a heavy responsibility to guide them as they grow, instilling in them that immaturity or a sense of entitlement is never an excuse for invading someone else’s space.
Facing the Challenge
I don’t have all the answers to tackle this significant challenge. While I emphasize the importance of respecting others, I am aware of the subtle ways society may perpetuate misogynistic attitudes and undermine bodily autonomy. I continue to do everything within my power to educate them, even as I acknowledge my limitations.
For many of us, the hashtag #metoo resonates deeply. As a parent, it inspires me to take action, ensuring my children grow up to say #notme. It drives me to equip them with the knowledge and respect for others’ well-being. I want them to grow up knowing they will never be dismissed, blamed, or deemed unworthy if they ever find themselves in a situation where they must address their own experiences with harassment.
The Opportunity for Change
As mothers and fathers, if there’s any silver lining in this movement, it’s the opportunity to influence the next generation. While we cannot erase the painful existence of countless #metoos, we can work towards nurturing a future filled with #NotMe’s.
For further insights on parenting and safety, you may want to explore this resource on pregnancy or check out our advice on home insemination kits at Make A Mom. For a comprehensive guide on parenting, visit Modern Family Blog.
Summary
This article emphasizes the crucial role parents play in combating sexual assault and harassment. It reflects on personal experiences, discusses the importance of education on consent and respect, and highlights the responsibility of parents to raise children who understand boundaries and respect others. Ultimately, it encourages parents to foster a culture of awareness and accountability to create a safer future.