Contact: Christie Hobbs
Phone: (202) 419-1820
WASHINGTON, DC — The Independent Women’s Forum applauds the distinguished service of Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O’Connor who announced today that she is stepping down from the Court, a position she has held with distinction for 24 years.
“As the first woman to serve on the United States Supreme Court, Justice O’Connor is owed a debt of gratitude by all American women. She has been a respected and measured voice on the Court and one of the most influential women in America,” said Michelle D. Bernard, senior vice president at the Independent Women’s Forum.
“It is almost hard to believe that prior to her appointment in 1981, the thought of a woman serving on the nation’s highest court was unheard of. Through her hard work and dedication, she has opened the door for women to serve at the highest levels of the legal profession,” continued Bernard.
President Bush has stated that he will offer his nominee in a timely manner so that the Court can continue its business in October. He also urged the Senate to conduct the nomination process in a civil and fair manner.
“Justice O’Connor’s resignation comes at a pivotal time in American jurisprudence, as issues such as private property rights, criminal justice, federalism, the rights of immigrants, and affirmative action are being hotly debated throughout the nation’s federal courts,” said Bernard.