Lyon: on board the train for equality, training on street harassment
After crisscrossing France, the train for equality ends its journey in Paris on Monday. On board six fully refurbished carriages, exhibitions and lectures on equality between men and women.
“Yes, a hand on the buttocks is an assault”
That day at Perrache station in Lyon, free training sessions on street harassment take place every half hour in wagon no. The benches are transposed into this revamped space, around thirty people are seated. “To begin, first question: according to you in France, how many women declared having been victims of sexist or sexual harassment in the public space?“Léa, 26, is a speaker for the association Forward All. “In your opinion, rather 21%? 45%..?“
The answer speaks for itself: 81% of women say they have already experienced this type of harassment once in their life, from insistent looks to touching, to being followed in the street, or even more serious still. The speaker discusses with the people present, asks what street harassment can cause. “of fear“, “anger“, “disgust“, answer some.
Then a reminder:street harassment is criminally punishable“, recalls the speaker. From 90 euros for a sexist outrage, the penalty encouraged for a sexual assault can go up to five years’ imprisonment and a fine of 75,000 euros. This concerns in particular theshoes“and other touching often perpetrated on public transport.”Yes, a hand on the buttocks is an assault“, reminds Lea.
It is then the so-called 5D rule which is presented to the attentive public. Entertain, delegate, document, direct, dialogue. To varying degrees, this is to give some examples of what anyone can do in a situation of sexual harassment in a witnessing position. “It’s important to address this point, because it really allows us to think together about collective and above all very concrete responses.” explains Léa. Film the scene, intervene, warn those around you or even go to see the victim if the attacker has fled to provide him with support.
“It’s amazing to see this still happening today.“, breathes Sylvaine, who came to attend the training.”We really want it to stop, this kind of behavior is no longer possible“, adds Patricia who accompanies him. Both enjoyed the session, with perhaps a small flat: “there were mostly women, not many men… It’s a shame!“