ONLINE ACTIVISM AND STREET HARASSMENT: DIGITAL JUSTICE OR SHOUTING INTO THE ETHER?

Abstract

Street harassment is a common experience in the lives of women. Despite both anecdotal and research evidence confirming its prevalence and harm, it is rarely responded to by the criminal justice system. Activist websites, such as Hollaback, have emerged in recent years in response to this silence regarding street harassment. While the aim of these sites is to draw attention to women’s experiences and work towards achieving a legal response, this article considers the extent to which online activist sites could function as an informal justice mechanism for victims of street harassment.