As the country watched the confirmation of Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson to the nation’s highest court, Harris County District Attorney Kim Ogg offered her congratulations, and several Black female prosecutors shared what this moment in history means to them as public servants in the criminal justice system.

District Attorney Kim Ogg:

“We congratulate Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson on her ascent to the U.S. Supreme Court. She is exceptionally qualified, which is shown by her spectacular record and impeccable credentials, and we need her perspective as a Black woman and as an expert in criminal justice on the country’s highest court. She is a historic nominee and has demonstrated throughout her career that she will be impartial, meticulous, and will put the law and Constitution first in every case.”

First Assistant/Chief of Staff Vivian King:

“Justice Thurgood Marshall’s confirmation in 1967 came at a pivotal period of American history when the Supreme Court was called upon to decide monumental cases involving the constitutional protections of civil rights and other discriminatory obstacles that faced historically oppressed communities. Judge Jackson’s appointment will be part of the Court’s rich history – ensuring that our nation’s laws honor the Constitution’s promise of liberty and justice for all. As a Black attorney, where approximately 2% of the Texas State Bar is composed of Black female lawyers, I am proud to see Judge Jackson’s appointment to the United States Supreme Court.”

Assistant District Attorney Raven Hoff:

“Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson made the seemingly impossible achievable. … The color of her skin represents brilliance coming in all shades. I am proud that she chose the hard path. I am proud that she trail-blazed a path for young women of color such as myself. Because of her, I can.”

Assistant District Attorney Shanice Newton:

“I’m so happy and proud of the historic confirmation of Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson. It’s a huge step forward for Black women, who always have to work three times harder than our counterparts to have a voice or space in the room. I’m glad that we are finally being recognized for our power, intelligence, and grace. We have always been in the background. Now we are finally beginning to get our spotlight.”

Assistant District Attorney Kim Nwabeke:

“It’s a breath of fresh air to see her go to the highest court in the land when you’ve had to be twice as good to be good enough. … I feel seen as a woman of color in a place that isn’t necessarily designed for you. I love the progress we’re making as a society. The struggle isn’t over, but little girls coming up won’t have to work as hard as I did and as hard as Judge Jackson did.”