How to stop being harassed by racists [guide]

I bought a large black leather shoulder bag, solid construction, well known brand, obscenely chunky (and heavy) handle made of a thick metal chain bathed in 24k gold. When I'm wearing it, street harassment is gone.

I went with a regular old brown leather tote today, to test my hypothesis. Slurs are back.

When I'm wearing something posh, people see money, and they don't even look further as they assume that abusing me might actually come with a punishment.

When I'm wearing something understated, even if it's in fact more expensive, people look at me.

When they look at me they see autism in my face, except they never read it as autism.

They think, This woman is sad. (sensory issues) Probably abused by her boyfriend. (not making eye contact) Probably a foreigner (general "different" behavior, happens also where I was born), but not rich (dressed casual) - she's light skinned though so she can't claim racism. She's not gonna do anything if I use her. Let's go for it.

It is what it is.

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