Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson talks Supreme Court ethics, family in 'Lovely One'
Sep 4, 2024
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Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson, the first Black woman on the Supreme Court, shares her inspiring journey in her memoir, 'Lovely One.' She discusses the critical need for a binding ethics code for the court, tackling the pressing issues of integrity amidst political scrutiny. Jackson also opens up about her family life, including her daughter's autism diagnosis, highlighting the balance between personal challenges and a high-profile career. Through her stories, she reflects on identity, legacy, and the importance of empathy in both public service and parenting.
Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson emphasizes the importance of public trust in the Supreme Court's integrity amid increased scrutiny and skepticism.
In her memoir 'Lovely One,' Jackson shares personal stories about her family's influence and her daughter's autism diagnosis to highlight resilience and authenticity.
Deep dives
Justice Jackson's Journey and Confirmation
Ketanji Brown Jackson reflects on her confirmation process as a significant moment in her life, especially given the charged atmosphere during the hearings. She faced intense questioning about her identity and judicial philosophy, which at times became hostile. Jackson emphasizes the need to maintain composure during these challenges, recalling advice from her White House preparation team about managing emotions. This experience not only shaped her role as the first Black woman on the Supreme Court but also motivated her to share her story in her memoir, 'Lovely One.'
The Court's Role and Public Perception
Justice Jackson discusses the crucial responsibility of the Supreme Court to uphold its integrity and credibility, especially in light of public skepticism. She acknowledges that the court's authority relies fundamentally on public trust in the rule of law, arguing that criticism of the court is an essential aspect of the democratic process. Jackson expresses her belief that the court can and must deliver credible opinions while addressing the heightened scrutiny surrounding its decisions, particularly following the Dobbs ruling. She asserts that the court's adaptive nature is vital in maintaining its role in governance and public confidence.
Personal Reflections on Heritage and Parenthood
Justice Jackson shares intimate stories from her memoir that highlight her upbringing and the influence of her family, particularly her grandmother. An anecdote about discovering a misspelled note from her grandmother teaches her a profound lesson about empathy and humility. Additionally, Jackson opens up about her daughter's autism diagnosis, a topic not previously shared publicly, emphasizing the importance of authenticity as a working parent facing challenges. By discussing these personal experiences, she aims to convey strength and resilience while reinforcing the message that diverse backgrounds contribute to one’s journey in both family and profession.
Supreme Court Associate Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson remembers her first brush with the national spotlight as "white hot." When President Biden nominated her in 2022 to replace retiring Justice Stephen Breyer, it kicked off an intense confirmation process for Jackson, the first Black woman ever appointed to the Supreme Court. In her new book, Lovely One: A Memoir, Jackson charts her path from the segregated South to the country's highest court. In today's episode, Justice Jackson sits down with NPR's Juana Summers to discuss whether the Supreme Court should adopt a more binding ethics code, the court's ability to deliver a credible opinion on this year's election and her family life, including her daughter's autism diagnosis.
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