Judge Jane Bolin was a true pioneer in the legal profession, yet her story remains largely unknown to many. As the first African American woman to graduate from Yale Law School, and the first African American woman to serve as a judge in the United States, Bolin broke barriers and paved the way for future generations of women of color in the legal field.
Born in 1908 in Poughkeepsie, New York, Bolin was the daughter of a prominent lawyer and the granddaughter of a trailblazing activist who fought for civil rights for African Americans. Bolin’s family instilled in her a strong sense of social justice and a desire to make a difference in the world.
After earning her law degree from Yale in 1931, Bolin faced discrimination and prejudice as she tried to launch her legal career. Despite the challenges she encountered, Bolin persevered and eventually found success as a lawyer, working on cases involving civil rights and housing discrimination.
In 1939, Bolin made history when she was appointed as a judge in the Family Court of New York City, becoming the first African American woman to serve as a judge in the United States. During her tenure on the bench, Bolin fought tirelessly for the rights of children and families, advocating for reforms to the juvenile justice system and working to ensure that all individuals received fair and equal treatment under the law.
Bolin’s commitment to justice and equality extended beyond her work in the courtroom. She was a vocal advocate for civil rights and social justice, speaking out against segregation and discrimination in all its forms. Bolin’s courage and determination inspired others to stand up for what is right, and her legacy continues to inspire generations of women of color in the legal profession.
Despite her many accomplishments and contributions to the legal field, Judge Jane Bolin’s story is not as well-known as it should be. It is important that we recognize and celebrate the achievements of trailblazers like Bolin, who paved the way for future generations of women in the legal profession.
By uncovering the untold story of Judge Jane Bolin, we can honor her legacy and inspire others to follow in her footsteps. Bolin’s dedication to justice and equality serves as a powerful reminder that one person can make a difference, no matter the obstacles they face. We owe it to Bolin and others like her to ensure that their stories are not forgotten, but are instead shared and celebrated for generations to come.
