Often referred to as "encoxada matinal" (morning encoxada), this phenomenon highlights the vulnerability of commuters during peak hours.
One of the cruelest parts of encoxada is the social response. Victims who speak up are often met with:
It can be used colloquially to describe any situation where someone is "squeezed" or "pushed" in a crowd, though this usage is becoming less common as awareness of sexual harassment grows. Awareness and Prevention encoxada
Have you experienced or witnessed encoxada? Sharing stories (anonymously) helps break the taboo. Leave a comment below or reach out to local transit safety groups in your city.
If you are a witness, you can help. Here is what active solidarity looks like: Often referred to as "encoxada matinal" (morning encoxada),
The name "encoxada" comes from the Azorean dialect, with "en" meaning "in" and "coxada" referring to a type of cake or patty. This dish is a staple in Azorean cuisine and is often served as a snack or appetizer.
For most people, it’s just an inconvenience. But for millions of women and LGBTQ+ individuals in Latin America and beyond, that crowded space can become a silent trap. That trap has a name: . Awareness and Prevention Have you experienced or witnessed
The word comes from the Catalan encorjar (to press) or the Spanish encoger (to shrink). In everyday slang, encoxada refers to the act of a person—almost always a man—pressing his genitals against a woman’s body without consent in a crowded public space, such as a bus, subway, or train.
Because the opposite of encoxada isn’t just empty trains. It’s a public where every body is safe, seen, and believed.
Encoxada is often served with a side of rice, vegetables, or a salad, and it's a popular dish in many Azorean restaurants. It's also a great example of the creative use of codfish, which is a staple ingredient in Azorean cuisine.
That is changing. In recent years: