I am now another statistic.
A few days ago after returning to my site I went to purchase vegetables after missing market day.
During the week there are sometimes ladies who sit on the street to sell fruits and vegetables. While I was buying goman (a dark leafy green that is common in ethiopia) a man started to harass me. I ignored him and continued my conversation with the women I was purchasing from.
The man approached me and when I ignored him he reached his hand down my shirt and grabbed my breast.
I don't know the words sexual assault in the local language. I don't know the man who assaulted me.
What I do know is that I have never been more proud of my town. Two men jumped up and pulled him off of me so I could walk home. When I told my compound family the following morning they treated me as their daugher. They made me buna gave me lectures on safety and offered to take me to the police.
At the end of the day I don't feel like a victim.
I feel grateful that I have a town that protects me, many families that love me, and a Peace Corps family to help put me back together.
This is my super precious ethiopian family. They are my light.
Love you Darlin! I am thankful that you have people to stand up for you and care for you. You are making an impact.
ReplyDeleteYou are a rock with the heart as soft as feathers Earth Mother. When life gets you down remember that beautiful earth child and all your friends that andre hear to support you. Figure out who this clown is and I will personally make the trip to make sure his hands can never grab another woman ;) I love you Dre! WE ALL LOVE YOU DRE!!! keep making the world a better place one person at a time like we all know you do. You fight on proud strong woman and know that my viber is always waiting to hear from you.... Don't be afraid to call as we are both fighting battles right now and can always lean on each other. Stay strong boss lady We Love You!!!!
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