Anita Hill: Kavanaugh Hearings Must Be Better Than in 1991

Prof. Anita Hill—who became a national figure in 1991 when she accused Supreme Court nominee Clarence Thomas of sexual harassment—has urged the Senate Judiciary Committee to redeem itself from her case when it hears the case against Brett Kavanaugh. Writing in The New York Times, Hill says: “In 1991, the Senate Judiciary Committee had an opportunity to demonstrate its appreciation for both the seriousness of sexual harassment claims and the need for public confidence in the character of a nominee to the Supreme Court. It failed on both counts.” She urged the committee to do better, and offered advice on how to get the hearings right 27 years on from her case. She says to refer to Kavanaugh’s accuser, Prof. Christine Blasey Ford, by name; don’t rush the hearings; and to select a neutral investigative body. A public hearing with Kavanaugh and Ford is scheduled for Monday.