This is a day to remember. I had my first semi-strike and I am proud of it. I was already angry and sad,sitting in the languages center as I was, and there came a man yelling at all of the students including myself to leave the building! It was raining cats and dogs and I wasn’t in the mood for a shower, so I simply told him that I will not move.

All the other students moved silently outside. I stuck to my place on the ground. The man threatened to throw water at me,and he yelled at me. I told him to speak politely to me and not to yell . He didn’t listen so I remained where I was. I couldn’t feel anything. I was too sad to care for what might happen, and I knew I was standing up for myself and speaking up. I was defending my right and I do not allow anyone to yell at me.

The man grew more angry, and I grew calmer because I knew I was getting on his nerves with my attitude. I told him that if he doesn’t speak to me politely I will not understand what he says. He then called two other men. I was alone on the ground and no other student existed in the building,only my friends who stood nearby but didn’t dare to join me. The men started talking to me,but he kept yelling.I grew more determined. He threatened to call security, I told him that I don’t mind it. They can’t touch me,and if they do they will be in big trouble. Then I told him I would go to the dean if he wants, because I don’t care. He noticed how determined I was so he cooled down a little, and used a lower tone. I made him listen at the end, and he talked politely. I proved my point and I left the building,only to return 15 minutes later and sit exactly where I was sitting previously. I am proud of myself.

It may not sound as much, but to me it is. People don’t speak up. They let others violate their rights and silently approve of it, I don’t. I taught that man how to respect me, and he learned his lesson. From now on, he will think twice before yelling at people like that.

Everybody was staring at me. It was so strange that a girl should “resist” like that. I reject being stereotyped, I reject being bossed around, and I reject giving in. It scares people that I say such things and think such thoughts, but if they were to understand what I’m about, they will change their minds. Speak up before it’s too late!