WASHINGTON, DC – The International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) applauded the US Senate’s confirmation of Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson to the Supreme Court Thursday. Justice Jackson’s confirmation marks the first time in 232 years, since the Court’s first assembly, that a black woman has been confirmed to serve on the Supreme Court.

Kimberly Butler-Gilkeson, co-chair of IATSE’s Diversity Equity and Inclusion Committee said, “The confirmation of Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson to the United States Supreme Court is historic, and marks a thoughtful effort to create a more representative judiciary in our country. Her wide field of experience and knowledge is not only impressive but also speaks volumes about her judiciary process and stands on its own exemplary merits. Her appointment will bring a lived experience to the court that many Americans can draw parallels to their own life experiences. Her story is our story… an American story. Congratulations to Justice Jackson.”

Previously, the union issued a statement supporting Justice Jackson’s nomination to the court noting her extraordinary qualifications. Her distinguished academic background includes degrees from Harvard University and Harvard Law School, and she brings practical experience to the Court gained from representing criminal defendants and as a policymaker. Her broad experience has spanned the legal spectrum, including drafting legal guidance, representing clients, and adjudicating cases.

Jackson was first confirmed to the federal bench in 2013 as a trial judge in the District of Columbia. In 2021, President Bident nominated her to the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit where she received bipartisan support from Democrat and Republican Senators.