Former Supreme Court Justice Anthony Kennedy retired from the Supreme Court in June, having served for over 30 years. Kennedy was a crucial swing vote in major Supreme Court decisions. With Kennedy’s retirement, President Donald Trump nominated Brett Kavanaugh, previously a judge on the District of Appeals for the District of Columbia and a member of the Republican Party.

During the nomination process, Kavanaugh was accused of sexual misconduct by Dr. Christine Blasey Ford. Dr. Ford claimed that Kavanaugh had forced himself onto her during a high school party. Additionally, Deborah Ramirez, a Yale University classmate of Kavanaugh, accused him of exposing himself to her during a college dorm party. Kavanaugh denied both of these allegations.

Given the length of time that had passed since the time of this alleged misconduct by Kavanaugh, proving innocence or guilt was difficult. Nevertheless, with the rise of the #MeToo movement, issues of sexual harassment towards women are scrutinized and taken more seriously than ever before. Both Kavanaugh and Dr. Ford testified before the Senate Judiciary Committee to address the allegations. This testimony may not have even occurred had it not been for the awareness brought forth by the #MeToo movement.

“The #MeToo movement has made women more vocal, especially on social media, and has created a huge upsurge of women sharing their stories.” said civics teacher Mrs. Kristen Jordan.

Kavanaugh was confirmed by a vote of 50-48 in the Senate. Although Kavanaugh was appointed as a Supreme Court Justice, allegations about his actions in the past hindered his ability to be selected easily. Kavanaugh’s reputation suffered based upon the allegations. Dr. Ford’s reputation was either bolstered or hindered, depending upon whether her allegations are believed or not.

Both will carry these new reputations with them as they proceed in life.

“I am very careful in the ways I represent myself to others in person and on social media because my actions make lasting impressions on others and online,” said sophomore Anne Sheriff.

It is important for students to remember the effect their words and actions will have later in life.