Rule 14. Avoid Walking Alone

Have you ever thought, “It’s a nice day for a jog” or “I just need to make a quick trip to the convenience store”? These are everyday notions most people have. Unfortunately for Black Americans, these thoughts are often followed by another one: “Is it really safe for me to walk alone?”

Studies show that Black people feel less safe 1 walking alone at night than other racial groups. That’s because Black people are often seen as a threat 2 due to the media’s negative portrayal of Black people and learned racist viewpoints.

But that doesn’t mean walking alone during the day is much better. Black men and boys can be targeted 3 in public spaces during the day too—even within their own neighborhoods or houses. When they’re seen as a target, this can lead to harm, hate crimes, unnecessary police brutality and death.

For Black women, it’s a similar story. Only 51% 4 of Black women feel safe walking alone at night, which is far less than their racial counterparts. Female-presenting Black people often experience sexual harassment due to harmful sexual stereotypes and misogyny. So Black people have to think twice or take extra precautions when walking alone at any time.