The Golden Globes this year was the beginning of a turning point, not only for women in the film industry, but for women around the world. In the past few months, countless female celebrities have started to share their stories of sexual assault and harassment in the film industry. The Harvey Weinstein allegations have finally cast a light on the patriarchy that has been running Hollywood since the film industry began.

From a young age, I figured out that girls and women had to fight to earn respect. In high school, I remember how the girls would just rip each other apart because of the insecurities created by their peers and the rest of society. I learned very quickly that girls are competitive because they are raised to be fighters, and if you don’t fight, then you won’t stand a chance in this world. What I never understood, however, was why women were fighting against each other.

Actors and actresses have always been viewed as idols and role models, obviously some more than others. When I was younger, I looked up to Emma Watson, and I still do. Women like Oprah have been able to raise awareness and create change because of their platform. They are able to set examples for the rest of the world and they are one of the first big groups to speak out against sexual assault and harassment. The blackout that took place at the Golden Globes really kicked off 2018 with a bang, starting something that will become revolutionary. The blackout finally did what should’ve happened years ago. Women were coming together and, most importantly, they were fighting together. The blackout did not only symbolize the start of the fight against sexual harassment, but it also represented the unity of people all around the world.

The celebrities that participated in this blackout are setting an example for the rest of the world, as they are fortunate enough to be able to gain widespread attention. Creating awareness with the #MeToo was only the beginning. It was merely a small action in 2017 that kickstarted the actions of 2018. The Time’s Up movement is one to keep an eye on, because it is just the beginning right now. Soon, it will going to grow into something that we will write down in our history books.