Women’s Wednesday: The “C” Word.

by Cheri Felix

Something has been a bee in my bonnet for some time now and while I am pretty sure anyone who reads this is “my choir” I thought I’d share. Perhaps it will be a public service announcement. And a warning.

Last year we women at 303 were exposed to what amounts to misogynistic comments and badgering and straight up vicious, ugly and demeaning intimidation. We were called names repeatedly and I’m not talking about names like “ugly” or gasp, “bad writer”. I’m talking about the C word. And every other word that you can think of that is associated with the C word. It was upsetting and insulting and intolerable. And I will admit because I am not afraid of my own fear, it was scary. Now, right around this time a friend of mine was riding up at Betasso. On the Benjamin loop specifically. The tight, two way part of the trail. I’ll cut to the chase and say that a guy called her the ‘C’ word. Wait. Let’s just say it. Cunt. Yep. On a bike trail. Mountain bikers. I was aghast but really if I’m honest I’d have to say, not so much. It’s become okay. Normal. I mean, a guy had targeted us as writers for weeks. Sadly, I’m not surprised. But it still sucks. And it makes me mad. And behind mad is sad.

This has been a bee in my bonnet for months. And I guess I’m using this article as a vehicle for a few things.
1) If you see something, say something. If you see a woman or anyone being verbally attacked, say something. Be the hero.
2) Teach your kids and friends how to handle conflict. Mean words are not the answer.
3) Never tolerate sexism on the trail. Or in the comment section. Or on the street. Or anywhere. Any chance you see it or hear it, challenge it.
4) Be nice. Say hi. Check in with others if they’re on the side of the trail. Wave. Ring your bell. BE KIND.
5) Lastly, don’t ever talk to me like that. I will call attention to you. I will gather every man, woman and child around to call you out. Don’t think I won’t.

Are there are many “isms” out there? You bet. But every since I was 14 years old and a guy called me a slut for not falling prey to his charms, I’ve stood up to bullies. Even at the risk of being hit or chased or called names. And that person who called us every name in the book last year is fortunate to NOT have been called out. We acted and decided as a group. But if I’m on a trail and you need help, I’ll help you. Whether it’s a flat tire or a crash or a bully, I’ll help you. I may be small and my bike might be light but I am mighty. And if we don’t stand up to mean people they’ll keep on doing it.

Everyone loves a hero. Get ready. You may be called on to be one.

 

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Comments

3 Comments

  1. Steve Jenkins

    Cheri,

    Thank you for the article. Everyone should respect everyone!

  2. Moe

    Yes! 100%

  3. Krash

    Thanks for speaking up on this Cheri.

    Sometimes I’m ashamed to be associated with the male gender. Misogynist name calling is intolerable. As is the reverse. I’ve heard terrible things directed towards my masculinity, albeit not as often as the reverse.

    You’re right, there are many “-isms” out there. I consider myself to me a “humanist”. I advocate for equality. Be kind to your neighbor, regardless of age/sex/religion/ethnicity. But if you are a bully, I will push back 🙂

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