General Discussion

Equinox Moon

(6,344 posts) Wed Jun 29, 2016, 09:55 AM Jun 2016

1st Native American appointed to MN Supreme Court! A woman as well!

1st Native American Indian (White Earth Nation) appointed to MN Supreme Court.
Supreme Court Justice Anne K. McKeig was appointment on Tuesday, June 28, 2016, now creates a woman majority of the Minnesota Supreme Court. 4 women & 3 men.

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Reporter asks: “Regarding all your life and the history of your life, what is your view of the Minnesota courts and how they have treated Native Americans for 150 years? And what does your appointment say symbolically about that?”

Justice McKeig: “That is a tough question. I would say it is always an equal access issue for everyone. I think the courts have worked hard and diligently to bridge gaps that have been there in the past. That takes creativity, collective wisdom. The State of Minnesota has been particularly committed to working with the tribal communities. We have the Tribal State Court Forum… Minnesota is committed to working on those relationships which makes that accessibility issue more meaningful.

Reporter: “How does your background influence how you make decisions? Are you different than of the other people in the way you go through your decision making process, because of that background?”

Justice McKeig: “Well I am different. (laughs) That’s for sure. I think everyone in this room who knows me would agree I am different. It can’t help but inform. I think our world view, and how we grew up, and how we were raised, and with the values that we were raised. There is a time, place and balance to base our decision with that information and our philosophies. It certainly does influence….”

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Proud tears woman! We share in your achievement and celebrate with you!
I love her authenticity and that she acknowledges 'it took a village' to make this happen. Justice Anne K. McKeig is an inspiration. She displays the perseverance to reach this level of judicial position.
Congratulations!