Edited By Libby Chamberlain
Every woman is somebody’s mother, daughter, or sister. And every day, these women are targeted by those who view them as less than human. Sexual harassment and gender-based violence occurs against women both in person and online. Jia has experienced it firsthand and are determined to fight back.
Jia Howard, Arizona
Jia Howard, Arizona
Hello, my name is Faggy Dyke.
Let me back up and explain. You see, today I got to experience my first “official” introduction to Trump’s America. Also known as the next four years of my life.
As per my normal routine, I dropped off the kids and headed over to the neighborhood doughnut and coffee shop. As I was pulling into the parking lot, a car sped past me to get the spot I was headed to. No big deal. I gestured, “Go ahead, you’re obviously in more hurry than I am.” Again, no big deal. I had extra time.
As I walked in, the woman who cut me off was ahead of me in line. The cashier made small talk and asked her how her morning was. Her response took me by surprise. “It was going well, until that”—looking at me—“faggy dyke cut me off.”
Now of course, 4,200 thoughts ran through my mind. Mostly resulting in her in a hospital and me in jail. Not a good plan. I was more shocked because normally people don’t look at me and think “gay.” I didn’t feel any more gay this morning when I got dressed. So I’m not sure what gave her the idea. Either way, it was shocking.
While I was plotting her demise, a small voice reminded me, “When they go low, we go high.” So I cut her off (intentionally in line) and said to the cashier, “Please ring me up for my usual and pay for her order as well.”
I then turned to the lady and told her to enjoy her order on behalf of all the faggy dykes in the world and to have a sparkly day.
I wish I had a pocketful of glitter to toss in the air as I walked away.
Welcome to our new country, folks.
Jia Howard, Arizona - Photo by Whitney Aymar / Whitney Rose Photography
Missed previous stories? Check back on Thought Matters for Addie’s, Adrian’s, Rachel's, Rajib’s, Lauren’s, and Karen’s stories!
Libby Chamberlain is the founder of Pantsuit Nation. She lives in coastal Maine with her husband and two young children.
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