WASHINGTON (April 7, 2022)—The U.S. Senate has confirmed Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson as the next U.S. Supreme Court justice.
Below is a statement by Johanna Chao Kreilick, president of the Union of Concerned Scientists.
“Today, I join with millions of people in congratulating Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson for breaking through the glass ceiling and becoming the first Black woman to serve on the U.S. Supreme Court. For far too long, Black women have been overlooked or dismissed as not being qualified for the highest court in the land.
“With her decades of experience, including as a highly respected, fair-minded jurist confirmed three times by the Senate, Judge Jackson should have enjoyed more bipartisan support. But today is not a day to lament Congress’ political dysfunction. It’s a day to celebrate an incredible addition to the high court.
“Like scientists, judges are charged with weighing evidence and making decisions informed by that evidence, while always keeping in mind that these decisions have real consequences for people’s lives. Judge Jackson has shown that she has the sharp mind and strong values to carry out this duty.
“As the first former public defender to serve, Judge Jackson will contribute her much-needed perspective and unique experience to the court. She has demonstrated a commitment to civil rights and equal justice throughout her extensive career. She has a strong understanding of the power and responsibility that the U.S. Constitution vests in the federal government to protect public health and the environment, along with a history of successfully evaluating difficult questions about administrative law and complex regulations. Just as important, she is committed to ensuring the courthouse doors are always open to those seeking justice.
“As Judge Jackson has said, ‘We are now charged with the responsibility… of doing the work that is necessary to protect the rule of law and to promote equality and justice for all.’
“We look forward to Judge Jackson becoming Justice Jackson.”
