A wave of attacks on women in New York City has left a cloud of fear hanging over the city, and Baruch College Campus High School is no exception. These seemingly random instances of punches, concentrated in areas like Union Square and Washington Square Park, have targeted women walking alone, shattering their sense of security.
The attacks occured in late March, sparking outrage and concern. News reports detailed a string of incidents where women were punched in the face, often without warning or provocation.
The victims, primarily in their 20s, were left shaken and injured, with some requiring medical attention. The NYPD scrambled to investigate, searching for a suspect or motive behind the violence.
The rise of social media has played a seemingly complex role in these attacks. While platforms like TikTok have brought awareness to the issue, they’ve also fueled anxiety.
Videos circulating online show the aftermath of the attacks, leaving many students like freshman Jessica Navarrete feeling tense.
“I used to walk down the street just scrolling on TikTok,” she admits, “but now I don’t do that anymore.” The constant barrage of disturbing content is a stark reminder of the danger on the streets.
The impact of these attacks is evident in the altered routines of Baruch College students. Sophomore Amaiah Santana, for example, described her new reality.
“My mom was more scared for me to go outside,” she said.
Once a convenient option, public transportation has become a place of constant attentiveness for Santana.
“I’m using my phone and sleeping on the train barely anymore,” she said.
The fear isn’t confined solely to those directly targeted. Apart form Santana, junior Sannah Hashmi, a student who lives in the Bronx has also been affected. She said there is a sense of unease despite the geographical distance between her home and the attacks.
“I’ve seen videos of the victims online on social media and on different news channels, and that’s how I became familiar with these punching incidents,” she said. Hashmi said she is sure to be aware of what’s around her.
While students like Hashmi haven’t drastically altered their daily routines, the attacks may serve as a stark reminder of the importance of personal safety for some.
“Ever since I saw those videos,” said Hashmi, “I would say that I am a bit more careful and mindful of my surroundings.”
