Lovely One

Content Warning: This section of the guide includes discussion of death and racism. 

Jackson reflects on her historic nomination and confirmation as the first Black woman to serve as a US Supreme Court justice. At her swearing in, it felt surreal to sign her name in the Harlan Bible, which bears the signatures of every Supreme Court justice since its original owner, Associate Justice John Harlan, donated it in 1906. Jackson reflects on the Supreme Court’s history of decisions that oppressed African Americans, including her own ancestors.

Feeling anxious in the spotlight and conscious of the immense responsibility of her new role, Jackson was grateful for the support of her family at her swearing-in ceremony. She was also buoyed by the support of the American public, who sent her encouraging letters and artwork to celebrate her achievement. Jackson appreciates these gestures and shares credit for her achievement with all those who supported and educated her, especially her parents, teachers, and mentors. Jackson considers her journey to the position of justice as the culmination not only of her own work but also of the “blood, toil, and tears” of her ancestors and other Black Americans (xvii). Jackson is grateful that, being born in Miami, Florida, in 1970, she was afforded more opportunities and respect than previous generations of Black women, but she also acknowledges that she has had to overcome barriers to success.