Protesting Brett Kavanaugh

By: Ivette Ruiz

Photos: Ivette Ruiz

For many survivors of sexual assault, the Kavanaugh hearing was the day they decided to go against the stigma and became heroes of their own.

“We are what democracy looks like,”
protestor shouting at the capital.

On Oct. 6, Brett Kavanaugh was confirmed to be the new member of the Supreme Court. After days of sexual assault allegations and investigation, Judge Brett Kavanaugh became Justice Kavanaugh.

Before his confirmation date, the Kavanaugh hearing had become more than just a job interview for Kavanaugh. In fact, according to a NBC article, more than 20 million viewers tuned into the Kavanaugh-Ford hearing. Whether they were in school or at work or just simply getting a cup of coffee, nothing stopped them from taking a few minutes of their day.

Dr. Christine Ford, one of the victims who accused Kavanaugh of sexual assault during high school, came forward with her testimony about what had happened to her in the summer of 1982.

“I am here today not because I want to be. I am terrified. I am here because I believe it is my civic duty to tell you what happened to me while Brett Kavanaugh and I were in high school,” Dr. Ford stated at the beginning of her testimony.

And in the exact moment, Dr. Ford became a hero to many women and survivors of sexual assault.

Even pets came to
the protest against Kavanaugh.

“33 days of protesting against Kavanaugh! ” said one Women’s March organizer, who organized “Flood the Capitol: Our Last Chance to #CancelKavanaugh” on the same day of the final Senate count to confirm Kavanaugh.

Mothers, sisters, friends, students, men, and even pets gathered together the morning of the final Senate count to stand on the Capitol stairs until police escorted them out. Nothing stopped the protesters, not even the fact that they may get arrested.

On the day of Dr. Ford’s testimony, the internet flooded with trending hashtags such as #IBelieveHer and #SupportSurvivors. It immediately became something more than just Kavanaugh allegations. It became something powerful and influential.

Many supporters and survivors of sexual assault shared their support to Dr. Ford, and others felt strong enough to shared their own experience of sexual assault.

“I’m standing for all survivors, for my best friend who can’t be here,” a student from George Washington University who went to the protest said.

Hundreds of protestors gather at the Capitol
stairs to show their support against
Kavanaugh’s confirmation.

“Kavanaugh Who? I’m here in support of other victims like myself, ” said another student who decided to protest because she was a survivor herself.

Dr. Ford became a hero and an inspiration for the public, including public figures to speak out on sexual assault. Actress Busy Philipps shared her own story of sexual assault during her teen years.

“It’s taken me 25 years to say those words,” Philipps posted on her Instagram.

For many survivors of sexual assault, the Kavanaugh hearing was the day they decided to go against the stigma and became heroes of their own. A day where the whole nation stood with them, supporting each other and making sure they’re not alone.

“November is Coming!” was shouted by many protesters.

“November is coming,”
shouted by hundreds of protestors.

“Having Kavanaugh as a Supreme Court justice is a slap on our face! Election is coming! And is important for everybody to vote,” said a college student from University of Maryland.

Election Day is Tuesday, November 6 and for protesters and/or those who are against Kavanaugh’s confirmation, the midterm elections are very important.

If you have been sexually assaulted and/or need help feel free to call the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 or visit online chat.