Well, I was almost robbed today.
I'm rattled and frustrated, but physically okay. Today I moved to Woodstock, which is a slightly sketchy area of town. But, it's also where all of the incredible street art is and where the creative community lives. This always seems to be true; that the more rundown an area is, the more street art there is to be found.
I decided to go check out some alternative galleries that people have recommended over the past few days. On the way back, I glimpsed an especially detailed mural down a perfectly decent looking street and headed towards it to take a photo. Within 5 seconds of having taken the photo, a guy came running up behind me and tried to snatch the camera out of my hand. He didn't manage to grab it and kept running past me. After I screeched at him and then burst into tears, an older couple on the street walked up to me and reminded me to be extra careful in this part of town.
And, it's true. I'd let down my guard. I'd forgotten TIA--- this is Africa. TIA is the acronym that people use to describe the kind of mindset you need to cultivate to remain sane in Africa. TIA means that you should prepare to be robbed at some point. TIA means that if you tell someone to meet you at 3pm, they may show up at 7pm or not at all. TIA means that if you are white AND female, you are vulnerable and therefore, subject to catcalls, ass grabbing and overt attention.
It's frustrating, but it is w hat it is. You have to accept those norms and prepare for them so that you can appreciate everything else that this incredible place has to offer.
I'm rattled and frustrated, but physically okay. Today I moved to Woodstock, which is a slightly sketchy area of town. But, it's also where all of the incredible street art is and where the creative community lives. This always seems to be true; that the more rundown an area is, the more street art there is to be found.
I decided to go check out some alternative galleries that people have recommended over the past few days. On the way back, I glimpsed an especially detailed mural down a perfectly decent looking street and headed towards it to take a photo. Within 5 seconds of having taken the photo, a guy came running up behind me and tried to snatch the camera out of my hand. He didn't manage to grab it and kept running past me. After I screeched at him and then burst into tears, an older couple on the street walked up to me and reminded me to be extra careful in this part of town.
And, it's true. I'd let down my guard. I'd forgotten TIA--- this is Africa. TIA is the acronym that people use to describe the kind of mindset you need to cultivate to remain sane in Africa. TIA means that you should prepare to be robbed at some point. TIA means that if you tell someone to meet you at 3pm, they may show up at 7pm or not at all. TIA means that if you are white AND female, you are vulnerable and therefore, subject to catcalls, ass grabbing and overt attention.
It's frustrating, but it is w hat it is. You have to accept those norms and prepare for them so that you can appreciate everything else that this incredible place has to offer.
It sounds like there are some local CouchSurfers interested in exploring with me so hopefully, having an additional person with me will amp up safety. I'm taking a break for today but fully plan on exploring some more tomorrow.
Here's to a better day tomorrow!
Here's to a better day tomorrow!
1 comments:
I wish I could give you a hug! People should know better than to try to steal a camera from you, of all things. Love you
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