First Latina Justice Sworn to Office in California Supreme Court

Governor Gavin Newsom swore in a San Diego appellate judge Monday to the California Supreme Court - the first Latina Justice to serve on the bench of on state's highest court.

A highly regarded jurist, Justice Patricia Guerrero's nomination to the court was confirmed through a unanimous vote last week by the Commission on Judicial Appointments.

Guerrero said it was "an honor and a privilege" to assume her new role as California Supreme Court Associate Justice. She replaced Associate Justice Mariano-Florentino Cuéllar, who left the bench last October 2021, per Fox5 San Diego.

During the ceremony in Sacramento, she was joined by members of the judiciary, legislators, and Guerrero's father Jorge, sister Claudia, husband Joe, and sons Anthony and Christopher.

Governor Newsom called Guerrero's appointment as a "proud day" for all Californians, per the Office of the Governor's website.

Newsom said Justice Guerrero's rise to serve on the highest court is not only an incredible personal achievement, but also an inspiring example of California's enduring promise that "any dream is possible."

Members of the Judiciary Congratulates Justice Guerrero for Making History

Recalling her roots as a daughter of immigrants from the Imperial Valley, Guerrero said, she did not get here on her own, but rather because of the "courage, sacrifices and the struggles" of her parents and grandparents, who came to the country knowing it would not be easy.

Among those praising Guerrero's legal skill and recognizing the historic nature of the appointment was Sonia Sotomayor, who made history as the first Latina to serve on the United States Supreme Court.

In a letter to Guerrero, Sotomayor wrote that the appointment is an important reminder of how far the both of them have come and of how far they have yet to go.

For Elizabeth G. Macias, a judge of the Superior Court of Orange County, she said Guerrero is already inspiring young Latinas to set their sights higher and believe they can be anything they want to be.

Guerrero has served as a Judge at the San Diego County Superior Court from 2013 to 2017.

She also worked as an Assistant U.S. Attorney at the U.S. Attorney's Office, Southern District of California.

The designation of the first Latina is "truly a historic milestone" for the judiciary and citizens of the country, according to retired California Supreme Court Justice Carlos R. Moreno.

Moreno added that Guerrero's academic credentials, litigation experience, and her service on the Fourth District Court of Appeal, demonstrate that she is well-qualified to serve.

State Sen. Durazo Supports Guerrero's Nomination

State Senator María Elena Durazo, who chairs the California Latino Legislative Caucus, lauded Newsom's nomination of Guerrero in February.

According to Durazo at the time, Latinas make up roughly 20% of California's population, but are underrepresented in nearly every industry, including the judiciary.

When Latinas are absent from this critical branch of government, said State Sen. Durazo, the experiences and perspectives are excluded, and this ripples throughout the communities in so many other ways.

Guerrero's appointment brings a better served access to justice for all Californians, said Durazo.

This article is owned by Latin Post.

Written by: Jess Smith

WATCH: Governor Newsom Swears In Justice Patricia Guerrero to California Supreme Court - from California Governor Gavin Newsom