Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson made history in June 2022, when she was sworn in as the first Black woman to serve on the nation’s high court. Now, the 116th Supreme Court justice is telling her story in her new memoir, “Lovely One.”
Jackson’s book tour recently stopped in Atlanta at the Atlanta Symphony Hall. That’s where “Closer Look” show host Rose Scott and the justice had a one-on-one conversation in front of a live audience. Jackson talked about her book and reflected on her journey from Miami to the Supreme Court. She also reflected on the recent mass shooting at Apalachee High School in Winder, Georgia, the insurrection at the U.S. State Capitol on Jan. 6 and her historic confirmation hearings.
For the first part of the conversation, Jackson discussed her earliest childhood memories, her love for reading and writing and the beginning of her interest in the law. At the age of 11, a story in Essence Magazine about Constance Baker Motley planted the seed for her eventual career as a judge. Judge Motley was the first Black woman to serve as a federal judge, and the first Black woman to argue a case before the Supreme Court.
For the second part of the conversation, Jackson talked about her academic journey at Harvard University and meeting her now-husband during a historical studies class. Jackson also talked about the power of mentorship and why her path to becoming a justice is rooted in the love and support of her family.
When Scott asked Jackson about her experience on the Supreme Court thus far, Jackson said it was unbelievable. “I did not have the kind of ordinary path to the court, and therefore I just feel so blessed, so grateful, for all of the people who invested in me and prepared me for this opportunity,” she said.
