Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson, often referred to as KBJ, made history as the first African American woman to serve on the Supreme Court of the United States. Sworn in on June 30, 2022, she brought a wealth of experience and a unique perspective to the nation’s highest court.
Born in Washington, D.C., and raised in Miami, Florida, Jackson’s path to the Supreme Court was paved with academic excellence and dedicated public service. She graduated magna cum laude from Harvard University and earned her Juris Doctor from Harvard Law School, where she served as a supervising editor of the Harvard Law Review.
Before her appointment to the Supreme Court, Jackson’s legal career was marked by a commitment to both public defense and judicial service. She began her career as a public defender, representing indigent clients in criminal cases. This experience provided her with invaluable insight into the criminal justice system and a deep understanding of the challenges faced by marginalized communities.
Her judicial career began in 2013 when she was appointed as a judge on the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia. In 2021, she was elevated to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit. During her time on the bench, she presided over a wide range of cases, demonstrating her legal acumen and her commitment to fair and impartial justice.
Judge Jackson’s nomination and confirmation process were closely watched and often contentious. Her qualifications and legal expertise were widely praised, but she also faced intense scrutiny and politically charged questioning. Despite the challenges, she remained composed and articulate throughout the process, earning the respect of many on both sides of the aisle.
Her presence on the Supreme Court is significant not only because of her race and gender but also because of her diverse legal background. Her experience as a public defender sets her apart from many of her colleagues and provides a valuable perspective on issues related to criminal justice and civil rights. She is known for her meticulous attention to detail, her thoughtful legal reasoning, and her ability to build consensus among her colleagues.
Judge Jackson’s arrival on the Supreme Court has been met with hope and anticipation. Many believe that she will bring a fresh perspective to the court and help to ensure that the law is applied fairly and justly to all Americans. She serves as an inspiration to young people, particularly young women of color, demonstrating that with hard work and determination, anything is possible. Her impact on the Supreme Court and the nation is sure to be felt for generations to come.