Kyra Harris Bolden has been appointed to the Michigan Supreme Court, thus making history as the first Black woman to serve on the state’s high court. Gov. Gretchen Whitmer chose Bolden, whom she described Bolden as “passionate about the law”, to serve on the Michigan Supreme Court.
“She will bring a unique perspective to our high court as a Black woman — and as a new, working mom — that has too long been left out,” Whitmer told the Detroit News. “Kyra is committed to fighting for justice for generations, and I know she will serve Michigan admirably, building a brighter future for her newborn daughter and all our kids.”
Bolden, 34, is the first Black woman and the youngest member of the Michigan Supreme Court.
Before this achievement Bolden has been a member of the Michigan House since 2018. She also served as a judicial clerk for Judge John A. Murphy in Wayne County and later practiced civil litigation at Lewis & Munday.
Bolden’s appointment comes after she lost a campaign for one of the two open seats on the Michigan Supreme Court in the November 8 election. Bolden was chosen to replace retiring Chief Justice Bridget McCormack. Bolden will join the court at the start of 2023 and serve a partial term that will end on January 1, 2025.
“I am incredibly honored to be chosen by Gov. Whitmer for this appointment to the Michigan Supreme Court,” Bolden said. “I will ensure equal access to justice, apply the law without fear or favor, and treat all who come before our state’s highest court with dignity and respect.”
Mary Jane Patterson was the first African-American woman to receive a B.A degree in 1862