Commends Chief Justice Bernette Joshua Johnson on a distinguished career as a jurist and a life of public service to Louisiana.
Impact
The resolution acknowledges not only Johnson's professional achievements but also her dedication to civil rights advocacy. Having begun her legal career in 1969, her contributions included providing legal services to socioeconomically disadvantaged neighborhoods and working extensively on issues related to school desegregation. Her leadership during and after Hurricane Katrina also played a crucial role in revitalizing the judicial operations in the New Orleans area, showcasing her commitment to the community and the rule of law.
Summary
Senate Resolution No. 16 commends Chief Justice Bernette Joshua Johnson for her exemplary career as a jurist and her significant contributions to public service in Louisiana. Chief Justice Johnson made history by being the first African-American woman to serve as Chief Justice of the Louisiana Supreme Court, which she was sworn into on February 1, 2013. Throughout her career, she has emphasized fairness and equality in the judicial system, alongside championing various initiatives that have positively impacted minority communities and the legal system in Louisiana.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding this resolution is one of admiration and respect. Supporters believe that honoring Chief Justice Johnson highlights her groundbreaking work and the strides women, particularly women of color, have made in the legal profession. Her recognition is seen as a reflection of the progress within the judiciary and as an inspiration for future generations of legal professionals.
Contention
While the resolution is largely celebratory, it indirectly points to broader discussions regarding representation and equity within the judiciary. Johnson has faced and navigated through a complex legal landscape, often advocating for justice and equity at a time when these issues were particularly contentious in America. Thus, the resolution serves to elevate her story while subtly addressing the ongoing challenges within the legal system regarding diversity and representation.
Commends Chief Justice Bernette Joshua Johnson of New Orleans upon her receipt of a 2013 Women of Excellence Award from the La. Legislative Women's Caucus Foundation
Commends Justice Bernette J. Johnson of the Louisiana Supreme Court on her ascension in the legal field and for her outstanding contributions to both the legal field and her fellow man.
Commends Chief Justice Johnson on being honored by the Louis A. Martinet Legal Society, Inc., on her many accomplishments and contributions to the legal profession
Commends Louisiana Supreme Court Chief Justice Catherine "Kitty" Kimball for her dedicated public service and congratulates her on the occasion of her retirement.
Invites Louisiana Supreme Court Chief Justice Bernette Joshua Johnson to address a joint session of the legislature on Tuesday, March 15, 2016, at 10:00 a.m.
Commends Chief Judge Joan Bernard Armstrong on her retirement from the Louisiana State Court of Appeal Fourth Circuit and for 37 years of dedicated service to Louisiana's judicial system.
Requests that the Bd. of Regents and the State Bd. of Elementary and Secondary Education, with the Taylor Foundation, La. Office of Student Financial Assistance, public postsecondary education management boards, and certain others, study certain issues relative to TOPS
Requests the Louisiana Workforce Commission and the Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs to study employment practices and professional licensing requirements to benefit veterans in the workforce
Creates a task force to study meaningful oversight of the professional healthcare licensing boards statutorily created within the Department of Health and Hospitals.