The “No Zone”

Editor’s Note: This is a post from a familiar face, Ploomy Girl #2 Elle. We’ve asked her to take us with her as she explores the New York City scene. Look for more of her posts and be sure to check out her blog if you get a chance.

At one of my previous jobs, we had a harassment policy called the “No Zone.” The policy outlines workplace appropriate behavior and politely refers to your physical, mental, and emotional personal space, your No Zone. Saying, “You’re in my No Zone” seems to be less confrontational than, “Harry, please stop pinching my bottom every time I walk by your desk.” I never used the term seriously, but whenever coworkers would come near me I would drag my foot across the floor in front of me as if drawing a line in the sand and yell “No getting in my No Zone!”

I can see the importance of having a harassment policy instilled in the workplace. But I personally want to see it integrated into social situations. I think both men and women could benefit from a policy that prevents people from making inappropriate advances at parties and bars.

I was at Ultra a few weeks ago, having a girl’s night out when two guys approached my friend Stephanie (pictured below) and me. Man #1 started to talk to me, and I tried to play nice. He kept talking to me with a familiarity that wore itself thin after the first time he called me “sweetheart” and put his hand on my shoulder. The promotional photographer for the evening passed by and suggested a picture of the four of us. So, we’re standing next to each other, I am making very concerted efforts to make sure there is no No Zone action going on, the photographer is gearing up, and then it’s over and I am very thankful. Consequently, I tell my friend “WE’RE LEAVING” and I drag her out the door.

The next morning I found the business card for the website where the pictures from the night before are posted. I go to the site expecting at least to roll my eyes. I flipped through the first couple of photos, and then, there is my picture—me with the guy I couldn’t stand, and him kissing my shoulder. It was at that moment I realized that we need the “No Zone” implemented anywhere alcohol is served. My advice fellas, be respectful of people’s boundaries especially at bars and clubs. I think there is a lot to be said for baby steps; mostly you should take them before taking giant leaps or coming on too strongly. Keeping your hands in plain sight and speaking to someone with the intent to make conversation not just drop bad pick up lines will definitely make you look like a gentleman, and not the guy the No Zone was modeled after.