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Participants write experiences of sexual harassment in chalk on public squares.
Under the motto "Catcalling is #notacompliment," numerous participants in Rüsselsheim, Groß-Gerau, and Riedstadt drew attention to the issue of sexual harassment in public spaces on Friday, June 13, 2025. Personal experiences were written on sidewalks, squares, and streets with colorful chalk – as a sign against abusive behavior and for more respect in everyday life.
Public action with many supporters
The third annual anti-harassment day was organized by the anti-catcalling working group of the Groß-Gerau district. The initiative was launched by the Office for Women and Equal Opportunities . Support came from the district student council , the Wildwasser and pro familia , the district's school social work department , the youth services department , and the Rüsselsheim Women's Center Women's representatives from Riedstadt and Büttelborn , members of the Green Youth and the Young Socialists , as well as representatives from the local police, also participated in the event.
What does catcalling mean?
The term "catcalling" comes from English and literally means "cat calling." It refers to sexually abusive or harassing comments and gestures – without physical contact. Typical examples include:
- suggestive shouts or whistles
- unwanted kissing noises
- Sexually charged remarks on the street
- Abusive messages on social networks
Even though catcalling is not yet a separate criminal offense under the law, this form of verbal harassment has real consequences: women and girls avoid routes or places where they feel uncomfortable or threatened – a clear restriction on their freedom and participation in public spaces.
A societal problem
Catcalling doesn't just affect individuals or specific regions. It's a widespread societal problem that can occur in all social and geographical contexts – even right in your own neighborhood. The day of action made it clear: everyday sexual harassment can no longer be ignored or downplayed.
(Gross-Gerau-Red/PSGG)
