On Friday, September 18th, 2020, the nation mourned the loss of a legal giant and feminist icon, Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. The 87-year-old justice passed away at her home in Washington, D.C., surrounded by her family after battling metastatic pancreatic cancer.
Justice Ginsburg, lovingly referred to as “RBG” by her supporters, was known for her sharp legal mind, unwavering dedication to justice, and trailblazing efforts in advocating for gender equality. Throughout her 27 years on the Supreme Court, she became a champion for women’s rights and a voice for the marginalized and underserved.
Born in Brooklyn, New York, in 1933, Ruth Bader Ginsburg faced gender discrimination from a young age. Despite facing numerous obstacles, she persevered and graduated from Cornell University, where she met her husband, Martin Ginsburg. Together, they navigated the challenges of raising a family while pursuing their respective careers in law. RBG then transferred to Harvard Law School, where she was one of only nine women in a class of over 500 men.
After graduating from law school and facing difficulty finding employment due to her gender, Justice Ginsburg began her legal career as a professor at Rutgers Law School and later at Columbia Law School. Her work as a professor helped shape her views on gender equality and inspired her to take on landmark cases that would change the course of history.
In 1972, Justice Ginsburg co-founded the Women’s Rights Project at the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), where she successfully argued several gender discrimination cases before the Supreme Court. Her strategic approach to dismantling gender-based discrimination laid the groundwork for the legal advancement of women’s rights in the United States.
In 1993, President Bill Clinton nominated Ruth Bader Ginsburg to the Supreme Court, making her the second woman to serve on the nation’s highest court. Throughout her tenure, Justice Ginsburg authored numerous groundbreaking opinions on civil rights, reproductive rights, and gender equality. Her dissenting opinions became legendary for their clarity and conviction, earning her a reputation as a fierce defender of justice.
Justice Ginsburg’s impact extended far beyond the courtroom. She became a pop culture icon, inspiring books, documentaries, and even a Hollywood biopic. Known for her trademark jabot and unshakable commitment to her principles, RBG captured the hearts of Americans of all ages and backgrounds.
As news of her passing spread, tributes poured in from politicians, activists, and ordinary citizens who were inspired by her courage and tenacity. President Barack Obama praised her as a “warrior for gender equality” and a “jurist of historic stature.” Vice President Joe Biden remembered her as a “legal giant” and a “trailblazer for women’s rights.” Countless others shared their personal stories of how RBG’s work had touched their lives and inspired them to fight for justice.
In the days following her death, mourners gathered at the Supreme Court to pay their respects to Justice Ginsburg. Flowers, candles, and notes adorned the steps of the court, serving as a testament to the impact she had on the lives of so many. As flags flew at half-mast across the country, Americans grappled with the loss of a true champion of justice and equality.
Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg’s legacy will endure for generations to come. Her fearless advocacy for gender equality and civil rights paved the way for progress in a society still grappling with systemic inequalities. Her dedication to the rule of law and unwavering commitment to justice set a standard to which all jurists should aspire.
As we mourn the passing of this legal giant and feminist icon, let us also celebrate her life and legacy. Let us honor her memory by continuing the work of advancing equality, justice, and human rights for all. And let us never forget the lessons she taught us about perseverance, passion, and the power of standing up for what is right.
In the words of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg herself, “Real change, enduring change, happens one step at a time.” May we all take a step forward in her memory, guided by the principles of equality and justice for all.