A big discussion among people today is the issue of sexism, sexual harassment, and sexual assault. Opinions vary depending on the state you visit and the people you ask, but it is undeniable that the “#metoo movement” has shaped a national conversation.
Kavanaugh and Ford testified before the Senate Judiciary Committee (Photo: NBC News).
Brett Kavanaugh is a Circuit Judge of the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit who has been nominated by President Trump to serve on the United States Supreme Court. In the last few weeks, his nomination has come under increasing fire amid multiple sexual assault allegations. Last week, the Senate Judiciary Committee heard testimony from Judge Kavanaugh and one of his accusers Dr. Christine Blasey Ford in order to determine whether or not her allegations have any truth to them. Although the Judiciary Committee’s investigation was inconclusive, they eventually agreed to have the F.B.I conduct a more thorough investigation of the allegations. That investigation is now complete and the full Senate plans to vote on the nomination tomorrow.
Members of the Northwood community have a wide range of opinions on the topic, but everyone The Mirror spoke to had one opinion in common: Kavanaugh’s partisan attitude was inappropriate. Johann Tremblay Kau ‘22 said, “I feel like when someone’s in that position of power or in a government position, he should have some sort of standard.” The theme of immaturity and unprofessionalism echoed throughout student opinions. Kip Morgan ‘20 said, “I think the way [Kavanaugh] answered the questions was a little inappropriate. He shot them right back and never really gave a straight answer.”
Noah Pittman ‘21 said, “[Kavanaugh] shouldn’t be allowed in office because of the extreme partisanship that he has shown.” Pittman’s view was echoed by Mr. Steve Reed, an English teacher, who commented, “The Senate Committee hearings left me jaundiced towards both sides [Republican and Democrat]. Neither side covered themselves with glory.”
Students and teachers also expressed their opinions on whether or not he’s guilty, with most leaning towards believing Dr. Ford. Madison Novotny ‘21 commented on Kavanaugh’s attitude during the hearing as “rather snarky.” “I want to say he’s guilty, but that was a long time ago, and these things always come up. Like, say for example, when Trump was running for President. All these things came up about him doing things to girls. I feel like it’s a bad time for Kavanaugh, but I feel like he should be guilty,” added Novotny. English teacher Ms. Aerie Treska said, “The views that Kavanaugh expressed on women were despicable, and the way he treated Dr. Ford was horrible.”
While opinions vary throughout the school, the common themes revolve around Kavanaugh’s partisan attitude, as well as his demeaning attitude toward women. Many are waiting to see the results of FBI investigation and plan to closely follow the Senate vote.
The article was co-written by Owen Pierce ’21.
