How common is it to be 'groped' by a stranger?

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Two incidents stand out as an adult (in my 20s). One was on the metro. I was sitting down and a man was leering at me as I read my book, saying “hey sexy baby”. I ignored him. When I got off the train, he followed me and groped my rear end. I yelled at him not to touch me but he just laughed and disappeared in the crowd before I could do anything.

Second - I was at a (long defunct) busy bar in Adams Morgan with a group of girlfriends. I went to grab us a round of drinks and my hands were occupied by holding three cups. Someone pressed up against me and cupped my breasts. It was packed and loud so yelling did nothing and I couldn’t even turn around in time to see who it was that did it.

Both times, the feeling of anger and powerlessness was overwhelming.

Have experienced similar on the metro. Crazy how these creeps just laugh it off. It’s infuriating.

Same, metro and bus. A couple of times just walking down the street. I hate that feeling of powerlessness. Never reported or tried to do anything bc it didn't seem worth it and I just wanted to get on with my life.

[Anonymous]

Pretty often in the 80s and 90s. I'm tall and blonde--every time I was in Italy, I'd get groped, usually by a cop. Lovely. I still loathe Italy. Most other times. I'd do something about it...but that makes it more challenging.

[Anonymous]

Three times.
1. I managed to kick him with my right knee.
2. I spilled boiling water on his nuts.
3. My pointy umbrella was the best defense.