Women Share the Crazy Measures They Take to Feel Safe on the Subway — And It's Draining
Women’s Experiences on Public Transportation: A Constant Battle for Safety
For women, navigating public transportation is more than just figuring out the best route from point A to point B. It involves a careful evaluation of risks to avoid situations that could lead to trauma. Deciding which subway platforms to avoid, even if it means walking farther, often comes down to whether they are dimly lit or not. Choosing where to sit to avoid potential harassment is another crucial consideration.
While not every transit ride is problematic, verbal harassment, sexual assault, and general discomfort due to other riders’ behavior occur frequently enough for many women to feel uneasy about using public transportation. This issue is not unique to any one city or country, but rather a global concern that affects women in various ways.
A Survey on Harassment in Public Transit
A 2018 survey conducted by New York University’s Rudin Center for Transportation Policy and Management found that 75% of women (compared to 47% of men) had experienced harassment or theft on public transportation. Additionally, 54% of female respondents reported being concerned about harassment while using public transit, compared to only 20% of male respondents.
In Los Angeles, a 2022 report by LA Metro revealed a drop in the number of women using its buses and trains, with nearly 50% of those surveyed citing crime, sexual harassment, and safety as their primary concerns. Sofia DiStefano, a singer in Los Angeles who regularly uses the LA Metro, shared her experiences of feeling unsafe on the train.
“I’ve had men follow me from car to car, or bus to bus,” she said. “I’ve had men get angry at me for not acknowledging them. Touching my body like my leg or arm for attention and saying, ‘I just want to talk to you and tell you you’re beautiful.’”
It’s frustrating because we all have the right to safe public transportation.
Global Concerns and Recent Incidents
This issue isn’t limited to the United States. Studies across the globe show that women are more hesitant to use public transportation due to safety concerns. Even in cities with women-only cars, such as Mexico City, harassment and gender-based violence persist.
Recent incidents in the U.S. highlight the dangers women face. In late December, a woman was killed when a man intentionally set fire to her while she was sleeping on a New York City subway train. More recently, a video went viral showing the fatal stabbing of Ukrainian refugee Iryna Zarutska on a light rail train in Charlotte, North Carolina.
Many argue that access to safe public transportation is a basic human right. However, women’s experiences suggest otherwise. We asked women to share the steps they take to protect themselves while using public transit, and the responses were both revealing and concerning.
Tips for Staying Safe on Public Transportation
Trust your gut.
Rachel Ann Thomas, an actor and dancer in Chicago, emphasized the importance of trusting one’s instincts. “My parents always told me to trust my gut. If something feels off, just leave. Your gut is never wrong.” She also recommended traveling with a buddy, avoiding public transit after 10 p.m., and walking and talking confidently.
Keep your head on a swivel.
Champagne Braswell, a 40-year-old from Columbus, Ohio, shared how she remains alert while on public transport. “I always keep my head on a swivel and be aware of any issues that may come along. If I have headphones in, I make sure not to listen too loudly.”
Make sure any transfer hubs are well-lit.
Kelda Williams, known professionally as Keldamuzik, highlighted the importance of planning routes with well-lit stations. “I avoid last trains when possible and carry a personal safety alarm. I also stand with my back to a wall whenever possible.”
Be particular about where you sit.
Suzy Liss, who lives in Portland, Oregon, shared her strategy for staying safe. “I try to sit close to an operator or driver and avoid sitting next to strangers if possible. At night, I take the fastest option so I’m not standing alone at a bus stop.”
Make sure you have a friend to share your location with on your phone.
Mohuya, a 27-year-old from New York City, stressed the importance of sharing location details with a friend. “I made a YouTube video about subway safety tips, including sharing your location with a friend and having directions on your phone.”
Try to stick around a crowd.
Alexandria Buscemi, a self-development speaker from Philadelphia, advised women to stay near groups of people. “There’s power in numbers. I also recommend carrying a weapon of choice, like pepper spray or a Taser.”
The Importance of Safety and Equality
Women should not have to calculate safety risks just to travel. Public transportation is a part of daily life, and everyone deserves to feel protected and respected. It’s not just about mobility—it’s about equality. Until safer environments are created, women will continue to navigate these challenges with vigilance and caution.
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