On January 1st, 2018, the Time's Up movement was formed in response to recurring sexual abuse allegations, mainly those involving film producer Harvey Weinstein, in addition to the creation of the MeToo movement. Since its introduction, Time's Up has rooted its focus in combating against imbalances and unprofessional behavior in the workplace; their official website states that "the clock has run out on sexual assault, harassment and inequality in the workplace. It's time to do something about it." While the movement has received numerous criticisms for its content, advocacy, inclusion, and overall goal, its success in changing the way workplaces function is undeniable.

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Similarly, but formed much earlier, the MeToo movement was founded in 2006. It wasn't until 2017 that the movement gained traction, Twitter users making the hashtag "#MeToo" go worldwide. According to their official website, the MeToo movement claims that its goal is to "reframe and expand the global conversation around sexual violence to speak to the needs of a broader spectrum of survivors. Young people, queer, trans, and disabled folks, Black women and girls, and all communities of color." Contrary to popular belief, these movements do not isolate men from participating in their mission, even if their target audience is women and communities of color. In fact, the MeToo website provides resources for all people, including a section for men who are sexual assault survivors or just consider themselves allies.

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While it has been some time since the introduction of these movements, both have made recent advancements and several headlines to date. Most recently, participants in the Time's Up movement have involved themselves in the imprisonment of Bill Cosby, a well-known American actor and comedian. After receiving several sexual abuse allegations, Cosby has been sentenced to 3 to 10 years in prison for the sexual assault and drugging of Andrea Constand. However, Constand was not the only woman who accused Cosby of assault; in the courtroom, she sat among nine other women with similar accusations.

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According to Deadline, Constand stated that "when the sexual assault happened, I was a young woman brimming with confidence and looking forward to a future bright with possibilities. Now, almost 15 years later, I’m a middle-aged woman who’s been stuck in a holding pattern for most of her adult life, unable to heal fully or to move forward ... Bill Cosby took my beautiful, healthy young spirit and crushed it. He robbed me of my health and vitality, my open nature, and my trust in myself and others." Experiences like Constand's can be detrimental to the mind, body, and relationships. With that said, your voice deserves to be heard, no matter the extent of the time frame, which is one of the main visions of both movements.

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When Cosby's hearing concluded and the verdict was announced, Judge Steven O'Neill said "it is time for justice, Mr. Cosby, this has all circled back to you. The day has come. The time has come." Participants in the Time's Up movement followed up with the verdict, posting the following on their official Twitter account: "Cosby's sentencing should serve as a reminder to abusers everywhere that no one operates with impunity. We remain in solidarity with all of the brave women who came forward and hold them in our hearts today."

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While some people are quick to argue that both the Time's Up and #MeToo movement are isolating and putting barriers between communities of people, instances like these go to show that your voice and experience matters. If one individual can certainly bring about change, could you imagine if everyone voiced their experiences? Do not be afraid to speak up. Do not be afraid to be an ally. Let your voice be heard, and most importantly, remember that the time is up for those who seek to abuse their power and privileges.