Meridian Hill Park: Harassment-Free Zone?
I just finished a run around the upper level of Meridian Hill Park. To be clear, I am not a runner. I like to say, I only run late. Or for office. But as part of a 6-week “boot camp” session with Project Fitness this summer I ran many laps around Meridian Hill Park. And then, realizing it was the quickest way to burn calories, I kept doing it.
I love exercising in the park because it’s pretty, there’s shade, and it’s good people-watching. The daylight seems to flush out most of the questionable behavior we’ve all heard so much about,* and people are exercising, walking their dogs, and enjoying the day. I even saw a little girl wearing fairy wings today.
What occurred to me today was that in the approximately 8 weeks I’ve been working out in the park, I have never once been harassed by one of the men lounging on the benches. This is a stark contrast from 14th Street, which I have been known to refer to as “The Gauntlet.” Even factoring in the handful that are passed out and drooling on the benches, that’s a pretty remarkable thing for my beloved DC.
Is there an unspoken rule in Meridian Hill Park — thou shall not harass women enjoying the park? Maybe I shouldn’t question it. And I hope I haven’t jinxed it.
Meridian Hill Park, lower level
*As ANC for the park, I’ve worked with the National Park Police on these issues for years
If the girl with fairy wings was with a dark-haired woman, a big bald guy, and two dogs, then you saw my daughter Sofia (along with my wife and brother-in-law). I’m glad I happened to read your blog and see that Sofia made an impression; I never read anyone’s blog. Good to know that the park is doing well in your estimation. Your enthusiasm for Weaver has me taking notice of him based on your credibility, although I haven’t made any choices thus far.
That was them! She is adorable. Thanks for checking out Bryan.