Judges launch statewide diversity, inclusion program
The Telegraph
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SPRINGFIELD The Illinois Judges Association (IJA) and the Illinois Supreme Court Commission on Professionalism (2Civility) is launching a new program week aimed at advancing greater diversity, equity and inclusion in the state’s legal system.
“Building Confidence in our Legal System” is a virtual three-part series that will bring together legal and community stakeholders across Illinois to address racial and other disparities in the legal system. The first session was Thursday.
“Institutional and systemic racism undermines the values of our nation and democracy,” said Judge Diane Shelley, president of the Illinois Judges Association. “Our goal is to build trust and confidence in the role of judges and lawyers in preserving those rights and furthering the cause of justice and fairness.”
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McHenry County Circuit Court Judges Hansen and Johnson engaged virtually with District 47 seventh graders about civics and the judiclal system on February 12. (Crystal Lake Elementary District 47)
In January, McHenry County Circuit Court Judge Justin Hansen met virtually via Zoom with 265 Lundahl Middle School students to discuss the judicial system and civic engagement. On February 12th, he returned to District 47 with colleague Judge Jennifer Johnson to virtually with nearly 600 7th graders from Hannah Beardsley and Bernotas Middle Schools. Students learned about the Industrial Revolution, the U.S. Constitution, the Bill of Rights and the three branches of government (legislative, judicial, and executive). In addition, through dialogue and written responses, students provided what they considered to be just responses to sample court cases the judges presented.
Judge Heiple
Justice James D. Heiple, the author of the controversial 1999 “Baby Richard” adoption case ruling, passed away on January 18 at OSF St. Francis Medical Center in Peoria from complications following a brain hemorrhage. He was 87.
During his time on the Illinois Supreme Court, Justice Heiple authored 175 majority opinions, 98 dissents, 27 special concurrences and 18 partial concurrences/partial dissents.
“Justice Heiple had a long and distinguished career in the judiciary and legal community,” Chief Justice Anne M. Burke said. “He will forever be remembered for the ‘Baby Richard Case’ and the controversy that came during his time on the Supreme Court. Justice Heiple persevered through those hard times and the Court sends its condolences to his friends and family.”