Men and boys are being urged to speak out and challenge harassment or unwanted attention experienced by women and girls on public transport in Greater Manchester.
The latest phase of the #IsThisOK? campaign is encouraging men travelling on public transport to consider their own behaviour and how it might be deemed unacceptable, while also providing support for how they can safely intervene and report incidents they witness.
Since its launch in September 2021, #IsThisOK? has highlighted the experiences that women and girls face while going about their daily lives, such as sexual harassment and unwanted sexual comments. These actions can also escalate into more violent behaviour.
Research suggests that 57% of women feel unsafe on our streets and public transport, and Transport for Greater Manchester is committed to changing this narrative and ending gender-based violence through its work with the Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA), White Ribbon UK and other partners.
Common examples of behaviour which can be classed as sexual harassment in public spaces and public transport include:
- Getting too close: Choosing to deliberately invade someone’s personal space – by standing or sitting too close to them or walking directly behind them on the street – can make women feel intimidated or nervous. Respect each other’s space, and keep your distance.
- Staring: Intrusive, intimidating staring of a sexual nature.
- Catcalling: It’s not flattering. It’s not just a bit of fun. Keep it to yourself.
Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester, said: “The safety of women and girls across our region has and always will be one of my biggest priorities, and ensuring their safety on public transport is of paramount importance as we deliver Greater Manchester’s integrated and inclusive Bee Network.
“We know that women feel much less safe on buses, trams and trains due to the behaviour of, primarily, men and boys. The #IsThisOK? campaign makes it clear that any behaviour which makes anyone feel vulnerable, frightened or unsafe has no place here or anywhere else.
“A survey of men and boys in Greater Manchester we commissioned showed that over half had seen our #IsThisOK? campaign since it was launched in 2021, with half of those saying it made them think, feel, or want to act differently. So I am delighted that TfGM is helping us spread our message even further by highlighting the unacceptable behaviour women and girls face on public transport.”
