This is only my opinion, and not the representation of Saintel Daily, LLC.
There’s no doubt that sexual harassment and abuse is coming to the forefront now, as a result of the #MeToo movement. In this post, I’d like to explore a rather controversial issue, but please keep in mind that this isn’t an indication of my own personal views. Rather, it’s a way to explore the ever-so-complicated facets of this incredibly serious issue. What do I mean, exactly? The Brett Kavanaugh situation is bringing to light the way that we view these allegations. Depending on if we think the person is likable, there seems to be this idea that they couldn’t have done it. But if they’re not as likable, then obviously they’re a sexual abuser.
We’re seeing this with Kavanaugh right now. It’s interesting that we look at this issue from a political stand-point. If you’re a Democrat, then, of course, he’s guilty and we should hang him (metaphorically speaking). But if you’re a Republican, then he is nothing but a sweet and innocent choir boy. How can we make these grand determinations based on likability or even political beliefs?
The left pushes the mantra of “believe women”, but at the same time, they also seem to be of the belief that even if Kavanaugh didn’t do it, he’s guilty of something because he’s been accused of rape. Which is contradictory. So if we are to believe the accusers, then we are also making the assumption that he’s guilty. You can’t have it both ways. On the other side of the spectrum, however, the right is touting the chorus line “boys will be boys”. But if the #MeToo movement is going to have any impact on society, it needs to cross party lines. Neither of these sentiments can exist.
In fact, there have been cases where we’ve seen Democrats accused of sexual assault, but the Democratic Party doesn’t back up their own stance. In the case of Al Franken, he did step down from public office, but there weren’t any folks on the left side of the aisle talking about how everyone accused of sexual assault should be hanged.
But on the other side, we have to stop excusing behavior as just being what “men” or “boys” do. That’s not ok, and that is fueling the fire more than what’s happening on the left. More women are bravely coming forward with their own stories, but instead of this being a catalyst for change, it’s starting to become a dangerous way to seek revenge.
Many of those on the left side of the aisle believe Christine Blasey Ford mostly because they dislike what kind of Supreme Court justice Brett Kavanaugh would be. And you can’t blame them for that. We live in a political world where we have to be able to defend injustices with everything and anything. So if it means taking Kavanaugh down because of things that he did when he was 20, that’s what they will do. But it’s not the answer. Nor does it help the #MeToo movement or advancing women’s issues at all.
The women coming forward now, and who continue to come forward are incredibly brave, and this post is not intended to belittle that in any way. My goal, however, is to get people talking in a way that allows us to solve problems together, rather than creating more.