On October 6th, the US Senate voted to confirm Brett Kavanaugh’s nomination to the Supreme Court. This came after allegations of sexual assault were made against Kavanaugh by three women, including Dr. Christine Blasey Ford, who testified before the Senate Judiciary Committee. In light of these events, we would like to echo the University of Windsor’s Women and the Law Chapter in re-confirming our mandate and beliefs.
We would first like to thank Dr. Ford for her bravery in coming forward and sharing her story. Kavanaugh’s ultimate confirmation only highlights the importance of bringing these issues to light and attempting to abolish the gendered violence plaguing virtually all aspects of society. From the entertainment industry, to academia, to the judiciary and beyond, women must constantly battle to assert their right to safety, autonomy, and respect. And these problems, already severe, are magnified for racialized women.
It is our duty as law students and future lawyers to work to reform the system from within. Kavanaugh’s confirmation presents a threat to the sanctity of the judicial branch. We must be vigilant about cultivating a Canadian legal system that respects the rights of all people and helps build a more just society. We at Women & the Law are committed to doing our part to raise awareness about these issues, and to support and champion women in our field.
Please do not hesitate to contact the Women & the Law Executive Team if you have any questions or concerns, or would just like to chat.
Thank you,
University of Toronto Women & the Law Executive
Sahar Sayyad (2L)
Daryna Kutsyna (2L)
Rachel Bowick (2L)
Elizabeth Chan (2L)
Leah McGurn (2L)
Catherine McIsaac (2L)
Nicole Thompson (2L)
Serena Ceco (1L)
Melissa Montana (1L)
