Protesters held a vigil outside the the University of Minnesota’s Northrop Auditorium to protest Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh on Wednesday night. 

The vigil was organized by the National Association for the Repeal of Abortion Laws, Pro-Choice Minnesota, a women’s rights advocacy group, and lasted for less than one hour.

Some individuals that attended the vigil spoke of their own experiences with sexual assault and chanted phrases such as: “We hear you. We believe you.” 

Andrea Ledger, the executive director of NARAL said that the organization is working to stop Kavanaugh’s nomination.

“We’re dealing with an unprecedented attack on women’s rights, workers rights, human rights in this country and [Kavanaugh] is just the latest in a long line of people who are seeking to undermine the rule of law,” Ledger said. 

Among the crowd were some University students who came to voice their opposition against Kavanaugh. 

Joe Ponzillo, a University senior studying physics and mathematics said, “I came here because [Kavanaugh] not only presents a threat to women domestically but to women around the world … [Kavanaugh] is an imperialist and his interests lie not with women, not with workers or with people.” 

Jenna Herbrand, a University sophomore majoring in sociology and youth studies, spoke in front of the crowd.

“Thank you for coming tonight and taking action … check in on yourself and check in on the ones around you because this is a hard time,” she said.

Community members also came to the vigil to assert their concerns. 

Deborah Calvert said she wants to see members of the University campus protesting in opposition to Kavanaugh’s nomination.

“I think that this nomination is an insult to women … the fact that they would consider someone with such a cloud hanging over his head and not trusting women who have come forth with tremendous courage,” Calvert said. 

Michelle Warneke, another community member, said that it’s important that people speak up about issues that they don’t agree with.

“I think Kavanaugh is an embarrassment. It’s really bigger than his sexual assault allegations … This is a lifetime appointment, this is a big deal … our voices need to be heard and silence is not an option,” Warneke said.