It’s NICOLE SANDLER, back to guest host the BradCast today for Brad & Desi. [Audio link to full show is posted below this summary.]
Thirty years and 11 days ago, a woman named ANITA HILL swore an oath to tell the truth. She then testified before the Senate Judiciary Committee about her experience working for Clarence Thomas. It was his confirmation hearing for a seat on the US Supreme Court. Her testimony was devastating. It was the first time anyone ever spoke of sexual harassment in such a public venue, especially from someone who was about to become an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court.
Those of us who were around and paying attention in 1991 remember it clearly, especially the reference to pubic hair on his coke can. Truly offensive. The only thing more offensive was the treatment of Hill by the panel of white male senators on the Judiciary Committee, including its chair, then-Senator Joe Biden.
A quick search of YouTube turns up a few video compilations of the most offensive questions they asked her. Here’s one from CNN, and another from Vice News.
After that, you really should listen to her opening statement too.
Well, it’s 30 years (and 11 days) later, and today, I’m talking with ANITA HILL. She’s written a new book, Believing: Our Thirty Year Journey to End Gender Violence.
The topic is an important one that she now realized is her calling. Hill changed the world three decades ago. She’s setting out to do it again. I hope you enjoy our conversation nearly as much as I did…
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