It is a pivotal time in our American history with the Supreme Court nomination of Judge Brett Kavanaugh, which has been tainted by the accusations of sexual assault from Dr. Christine Blasey Ford, a professor of Psychology.

The accusation alleges that Kavanaugh, at the age of 17, sexually assaulted then 15 year old Ford at a party during the summer of '82. Surrounding the #MeToo movement, this case has been projected internationally, sparking intense scrutiny and death threats directed at both parties and their families. Within the last couple of weeks, our country has become divided, hostile, and fearful.

Did we forget about the amendments to the Constitution of the United States? Let me remind you: "innocent until proven guilty...," the presumption of innocence that guarantees every person "equal protection under the law." Kavanaugh hasn't been proven guilty, there hasn't been enough evidence to corroborate Dr. Ford's accusations. Until there is, he should be treated like a human being, given his rights as a citizen of our country.

As the young generation of America, we should raise our platform to become the model citizens in our country, working together to unite instead of divide, listen to each other's opinions before we judge, and reflect on each other's backgrounds and ideals before we automatically stereotype and assume. We must stop the projection of terrorization and hatred onto one another. Before speaking out about something against someone, become fully educated in the situation, and analyze both sides of the story. We must value the word 'respect' in all aspects of communication, where it be on social media, face-to-face, in a work environment, politically, amongst interactions with people of the other sex, religion, culture, or country. RESPECT.

We must hear both sides before we can judge. This includes not only the Kavanaugh/Ford case, but everyone's political beliefs. Everyone is entitled to share their own political opinions and defend their points, so long as it is kept respectable, and without projecting insults and instilling fear towards those who do not believe in those opinions. We shouldn't have to keep our mouths shut from fear of facing intense backlash, or having our friendships or relationships we have cultivated torn apart. We should be free to talk politically with each other.

Why have we suddenly strayed away from being respectful towards one another? Why has our society made it okay to fully insult and instill hatred towards one another? How can we begin to mend the political divide that has so greatly affected our country?