TOWNSHEND — As a woman (or really, as a human being), this week has been incredibly intense.
What it boils down to is that Brett Kavanaugh is credibly accused of assault by multiple women. He should step down.
The fact that he has not shows that he does not care or view sexual assault as a serious matter.
The fact that the Senate Judiciary Committee is pushing his confirmation through shows they do not see sexual assault as a serious matter.
The fact that there are people who think that the testimony of Christine Blasey Ford is anything other than a selfless, brave sacrifice is a testament to the rape culture that exists in our country.
This hearing and the callous attitudes by our lawmakers are a slap in the face to abuse survivors of all genders.
Last week, tons of Americans saw their worst experiences played out on a large scale. The reactions of family or friends or coworkers reinforced people's fears about coming forward with their experiences. Sexual assault is the only crime where the victim is more on trial than the perpetrator.
Despite this, the actions by survivors across the country have been amazing.
If you do not understand the reaction to this hearing, look around you. Check yourself. Read some pieces about it. Check yourself again. Someone you know and care about has been assaulted; maybe they have not told you, and maybe your reaction to this topic is defining their future trust in you.
For many people, this is not just a news cycle or the latest controversial development in our government. This is our past, present, and future.