Are you following the selection of judges in MO? If you want the justice system to work, it needs to represent everyone, but in Kansas City - it doesn't.

What follows is the latest announcement from the selection of a judge.  There was an African American candidate that was supported by the black community in Kansas City and even better by groups of concerned citizens state wide.  She wasn't selected, but was a good applicant.  

Kansas City has the fewest judges of color for a city of its size and racial makeup in the midwest.  Some blame the judicial selection process.  Others blame that applicants.  Still others see vestiges of prejudice in the selection process, application procedure and even the lack of a vision or mission statement from the legislative, executive or judicial branches on the value of a diversified judiciary.  Then of course we have to ask what we asked for as well.

As we read The New Jim Crow, review disappointing statistics on minority participation in the economy and startling lack of leadership on these key issues, one point comes to mind that says . . . 

. . . if we want something different, we ought to think about it and ask for it in a way that makes sense.

Lets plan on doing that this summer.  If you want to be a part of the conversation or submit comments, insight or observations or even get news as ideas develop - click here jcnaacp@gmail.com  and send an email with "JUDICIAL" to get added to the conversation - not a bunch of random emails - just a link to stay connected and get involved if you would like to be.

Jackson County Bar Association Requests Member Support for
Associate Circuit Judge Vacancy Panel, Division 31
 

KANSAS CITY -- The 16th Circuit Judicial Commission has considered 14 applicants and selected a panel of three nominees for the associate circuit judge vacancy in division 31 of the Jackson County circuit court, created by the retirement of Judge Christine Sill-Rogers. One of the nominees, Arimeta DuPree, is a JCBA member. Ms. DuPree’s resume is attached for review.

The governor has until May 10, 2013 to appoint one of the nominees as associate circuit judge for Division 31.

The Jackson County Bar Association (JCBA) is very excited about Ms. Dupree’s nomination. We believe it shows the Missouri Court’s desire to add diversity to the bench. It is important for JCBA members to show support for this effort. Ensuring justice and equal opportunity is a key part of the mission of JCBA.  As such, letters of support or recommendation from JCBA members for any of the panelists may be faxed or mailed to the number or address below.

Correspondence should be addressed to Governor Jay Nixon but directed to the attention of Ted Ardini, Counsel to the Governor.  Faxes are preferred.
Office of the Governor
State Capitol, Room 216
P.O. Box 720
Jefferson City, MO 65102
Facsimile:  573-751-1495
 
The complete applications for the three nominees may be viewed on the Missouri Courts website at www.courts.mo.gov. Additional biographical information provided by each candidate is attached to this email for your review. Please remember that time is of the essence when planning to submit your correspondence.
 
About The Jackson County Bar Association
The Jackson County Bar Association (JCBA) is a voluntary bar association comprised primarily of African-American attorneys from throughout the Kansas City metropolitan area. The purpose of the JCBA is to be a resource for its members; to work to ensure justice and equal opportunity for the African-American community; improve the administration of justice; preserve the independence of the judiciary, improve the economic conditions of all citizens of Missouri; uphold the honor of the legal profession; and protect the civil and political rights of the citizens and residents of the State of Missouri. For more information about JCBA visitwww.jacksoncountybar.com.