Wednesday, September 19, 2018

NCLR Calls on the White House to Direct the FBI to Investigate Sexual Assault Allegations Against Kavanaugh

Professor Christine Blasey Ford requested yesterday that the FBI conduct an investigation into sexual assault allegations against Trump Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh before Senators move forward with his nomination. National Center for Lesbian Rights (NCLR) Legal Director Shannon Minter issued the following statement in response:

“No person has a right to sit on the Supreme Court of the United States, and members of Congress must serve the interests of the American people, not Brett Kavanaugh.

“The people of this country deserve a thorough and nonpartisan process. No one facing such serious allegations of sexual assault should be confirmed to our nation’s highest court without a full investigation of these claims.

“Christine Blasey Ford’s allegations are detailed, credible, and corroborated by third parties. Professor Ford had nothing to gain by coming forward. Her allegations must be taken seriously and investigated fully.

“Professor Ford’s story cuts close to the bone for many members of the LGBT community who have been subjected to the pain and devastation of sexual violence. LGBT people are more likely to experience sexual violence, and survivors in our community also fear discrimination and are less likely to report assaults to the police or seek medical care.

“All survivors who make the courageous decision to come forward must be treated with dignity and respect. We join the chorus of voices demanding that the Senate ensure a full, fair, and respectful investigation before moving forward this process.”