I identify as both
and neither.
I felt myself
With this self.
So why when I walk
Is it an invitation?
I do not exist for you,
Or you,
Or them,
Or anyone.
I exist for me.
As my age has enlarged,
So has the hubris
The stares
And expectations.
I do not walk for you
Or talk for you.
So why are my steps only safe
And my words valid
When accompanied?
Why is touching
Groping
Harrassing
Stalking
Acceptable, or brushed off.
I have my identity,
But the world will always expect
Me to come second,
And to smile while you yell.
-
Author:
Anna Wakey29 (
Offline) - Published: April 22nd, 2026 18:29
- Comment from author about the poem: I came out as non-binary a few years ago, and felt so right because of it. The harassment, however, didn't stop. I am aware men don't know how bad it is for women, and this isn't an attack. When I told my partner how much I have been groped on public transport, or shouted at, he was shocked.
- Category: Reflection
- Views: 10
Offline)
Comments2
There is little respect now days and I chalk it up to this because that is what it boils down to. Respect for another regardless of sex, color, religion or anything else and I don't see it in a world where everyone is all that exists and everyone else is expected to be what others demand.
Fully agree, very well put!
Sorry - I've been trying to avoid this after you included it in your personal profile. So can you tell an ignorant old fella what being non-binary means and how that was an attempt to stave off public sexual harassment.
Still have hopes to hear good news re your housing situation.
Well non binary is about gender identity - it means you identify as male and female or neither. However it's a very personal thing for me, it's not something I make my whole personality if that makes sense? In fact I hate most other people that identify the same way because they're snowflake-easily offended-cant say anything types. But it has nothing to do with the act of staving off harassment, and more the fact that even though I've found this label that I think feels right, because I look like a woman I'm still harassed pretty regularly and in essence the journey I went on a realisation I had means nothing to the average Joe, and even though I have been through so much and have to defend what I am because people assume I'm some snowflake type, when I walk down the street I'm still just a slab of meat
Sorry I still don't understand. Whatever non binary means to you (and I'm guessing that it is a state of mind) Apparently you present as a woman on the street and so on. Now I can accept that the harassment by males (not all of us, he stated somewhat defensively) you describe is real, so complain/campaign about that, I'd advise. It is evident that 'non binary' has little to do with this situation.
To be able to comment and rate this poem, you must be registered. Register here or if you are already registered, login here.