Whether seen as flattery or harassment, stories like this aren’t unique to Cullity or RBHS students. Catcalling is commonplace throughout America and the world. Women and girls often hear comments like “Hey, beautiful.” “Why don’t you smile?” and even slurs as they walk the streets of Columbia.

Catcalling, as with other types of harassment, is difficult to stop in the moment, as the perpetrators use intimidation as a tool to retain power.