Thread by @callieabost

Can't stop thinking about the #ElizaFletcher abduction.

Absolutely horrible.

I've been a consistent runner for 8-9 years and I've been hollered at, touched, and followed by people in cars and on foot (two times but still).

It's unsettling every time it happens, but to think it could become the worst-case scenario is really tough to stomach.

(followed by someone in a car once and on foot once, both were horrifying)

To me, running outside is the ultimate freedom.

Just you and the world.

It's awful to be reminded how much that freedom comes with vulnerability.

Sick to my stomach.

People are evil.

https://twitter.com/MEM_PoliceDept/status/1567147974462939139?s=20&t=eyNORiXLlFQ65Ln2MrfYPg

ALSO.

The victim-blaming is disgusting. Stop that.

We shouldn't have to run with knives and mace (although I'll have both from now on).

We shouldn't have to glance over our shoulders constantly.

We shouldn't have to buddy up or join a run club.

(BTW, nothing against run clubs, BUT they are not an easy solution. I joined one here in CLT a few years ago that I ultimately had to leave with other girls because there was a dude in the group harassing us)

It shouldn't be on us to feel safe while merely existing in public.

(as you can tell, I am really shaken and upset by all of this)

RIP Eliza. Sending all the love to her family.

I don't know what the solution is, but I know that women runners are not OK.

and it's far too common for us to deal with situations that are menacingly close to what she had to endure.