Los Angeles Urban League supports the nomination of Sonia Sotomayor to the Supreme Court

Update (6/18/09): The LA Sentinel cites the Los Angeles Urban League's support of Judge Sonia Sotomayor.

The Los Angeles Urban League applauds President Obama for the historic nomination of Judge Sonia Sotomayor to be the next Associate Justice of the United States Supreme Court.

Judge Sotomayor has demonstrated excellence and distinction as a trial attorney and she has compiled an extensive record of judicial expertise. Judge Sotomayor possesses the real-life experience that President Obama has determined will be critical to the new Associate Justice, who will be called upon to apply the law in a manner reflective of everyday lives and circumstances.

In making a determination on whether to support a federal judicial nomination, the major concern of the Los Angeles Urban League is whether the nominee’s record demonstrates an understanding of the need to continue the fight for African Americans and other minorities so as to secure economic self-reliance, parity, power and civil rights. Throughout our history the courts have played an unparalleled role in ensuring that the most underserved in our communities would have the hope of achieving equal opportunity. Like many of the constituents we serve, Judge Sotomayor’s record indicates that she has overcome innumerable obstacles on her way to achievement. She is an inspiring woman whose record reflects a commitment to equality.

Even as we face extraordinary fiscal and community challenges here in California, we are continually inspired by President Obama’s willingness to expand opportunity for all Americans and to ensure that new voices and points of view will be heard throughout government and the judiciary.

The Los Angeles Urban League joins the chorus of leaders and organizations that are urging the U.S. Senate to move Judge Sotomayor’s nomination forward expeditiously.