How Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson Just Made History
When Joe Biden was running for president, he made a specific promise: If he were to be elected, he would nominate a woman of color to the Supreme Court (via CNBC). During a press conference on the campaign trail, Biden stated that he planned to hold true to his promise. "We are putting together a list of a group of African American women who are qualified and have the experience to be in the court," he said. At the time, Biden stated, "I am not going to release that until we go further down the line of vetting them" (per CNBC).
President Biden followed through with his promise when he nominated Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson to the Supreme Court in March 2022 (per France 24). While Jackson was interrogated by Republicans during her confirmation hearings, she stood strong. "I have dedicated my career to ensuring that the words engraved on the front of the Supreme Court building — equal justice under law — are a reality and not just an ideal," Jackson said (via France 24).
The hearing process was long and difficult. Many Republicans grew angry at Jackson as the days progressed — Lindsay Graham even stormed out of her senate hearing — but she remained steadfast in the face of adversity. As a result of her resilience, Jackson just made history.
Judge Jackson is the first black woman to join the Supreme Court
After a long hearing process, Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson has made history as the first Black woman to sit on the Supreme Court (via CNN). While she won't be sworn in until Justice Stephen Breyer retires over the summer, Jackson has already made a mark for Black women everywhere.
The final vote came to 53-47 in favor of Brown. Some Republicans, including Senators Susan Collins and Mitt Romney, crossed party lines to confirm the democratic court nominee (per NPR). Democrats were reportedly thrilled to have Judge Jackson confirmed to the Supreme Court. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said, "This is one of the great moments of American history" (via NPR).
Schumer added, "Today we are taking a giant, bold and important step on the well-trodden path to fulfilling our country's founding promise. This is a great moment for Judge Jackson but it is an even greater moment for America as we rise to a more perfect union." President Joe Biden joined in on the celebrations via Twitter, posting a picture of himself and Judge Jackson with a touching caption.
President Biden's message read, "Judge Jackson's confirmation was a historic moment for our nation. We've taken another step toward making our highest court reflect the diversity of America. She will be an incredible Justice, and I was honored to share this moment with her."