Judge Aquilina,

Sexual assault is a scary phrase. We choke on the words, the syllables caught in our throat, refusing to leave our mouths. It makes us uncomfortable and scared. It's a sort of secret phrase; not to be talked about, not to be mentioned. And yet, we live in a world where the threat of sexual assault is just an unfortunate side effect of being female. So when people like Larry Nassar make national headlines, we tend to shake our heads sadly, as if to say "What a shame." Because so often, in situations like this, the legal system fails the victims. But because of you, that was not the case.

To preside over a trial about sexual assault, there is no script, no set of rules for how to control courtroom conduct. To decide how to delicately, and appropriately handle victim and attacker interaction. There is no guidebook for what to say. As a judge, you are told to improve, to say what you think is best. And sometimes, judges fail. Yet, you ensured that this was not the case.

You gave victims a safe place to speak. You encouraged confidence in them, creating a forum for them to face their attacker. You ensured that everyone was able to say their peace, to leave behind their victim role. It was this advocacy for the girls who were abused by Nassar, that robbed him of his power, and gave it back to those strong, young women in your courtroom.

Refusing to pardon Nassar from hearing his victim's statements, you made sure that Nassar began to feel the weight of his crimes before his sentencing began. You created due process, but also gave victims a fair shot at making their voice heard. Because of you, they can leave behind the title of "victim," moving forward as a "survivor."

You gave the victims hope, and you gave me hope as well. You gave me hope that this will set a precedent for a new type of American justice system. Hope that a reckoning is coming. Hope that we look to you as an example, and allow your guidance to strengthen our resolve, to fight a strong fight against sexual abuse and assault in our country.

You told the victims to "leave your pain here and go out and do magnificent things." Judge you too have done a magnificent thing, and I, and many others thank you for that.