Remembering Justice Ginsburg
Law clerks gathered outside of the Supreme Court building in
Washington, D.C. to pay respects to Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg.
One year ago, we lost Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. At the Supreme Court for her memorial service shortly thereafter, I joined fellow clerks to mourn her loss, reflect on her legacy, and ask how we could continue her work. As we end the traditional one year mourning period, these questions remain alive for me–as does my belief that we can all learn from Justice Ginsburg’s foundational maxim:
“Fight for the things that you care about, but do it in a way that will lead others to join you.”
Justice Ginsburg’s life’s work focused on advancing the cause of justice, fighting for equal rights for all, and defending the rule of law. My true north as Colorado Attorney General is to focus on these goals. And her frequent invocation of a classic Biblical teaching–”justice, justice shall you pursue”–continues to inspire me.
As a champion of gender equality and women’s rights, Justice Ginsburg taught the world to see justice and freedom differently and to work for a better future for all. Her life’s work demonstrates how the law can serve as a tool to promote justice and that we can all make a difference. Her model of doing that work will remain a blessing as we continue the work of perfecting our union.
Today, a Supreme Court without Justice Ginsburg’s wisdom and leadership is re-considering Roe v. Wade, and the State of Texas has taken a brazen action to undermine reproductive rights. Our office will continue to defend the rule of law and protect equal rights for all. That’s why we filed a brief in support of the US Justice Department’s challenge to the Texas law.
We can honor Justice Ginsburg's spirit by following her commitment to justice and equality, learning from how she advanced those values, and fighting for what we believe in. Like Justice Ginsburg, I will continue to stay positive and focused on the work ahead. And I will continue to hold onto her memory as an inspiration and a blessing.