Downriver Today

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer (D-MI) recently revealed that she selected a new Michigan Supreme Court judge.

Kyra Harris Bolden will succeed Justice Bridget Mary McCormack in January, according to a press release from the governor's office. Bolden will become the first Black woman to serve on the state Supreme Court and is Whitmer's first appointment to it.

"Today, I am honored to announce that I will be appointing Kyra Harris Bolden to the Michigan Supreme Court," Whitmer said in the press release. "A state representative from Southfield [and] former law clerk and litigator, Kyra is passionate about the law and will be the first Black woman ever 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. 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 currently serves in the Michigan House of Representatives, District 35, the press release noted. She was first elected in November 2018 and was re-elected in 2020. Bolden works as the assistant Democratic leader and is a member of the House Judiciary and Insurance committees, in addition to her role as a state representative.

"I am incredibly honored to be chosen by Gov. Whitmer for this appointment to the Michigan Supreme Court," Bolden said in the press release. "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. I also know that this moment — becoming the first Black woman to serve on the Michigan Supreme Court — would not be possible without leaders like Judges Shelia Johnson, Debra Nance, Deborah Thomas, Cynthia Stephens, and Denise Langford Morris. These are the Black women who blazed the path that I seek to follow.

"I hope that my voice on the Court will inspire future generations to pursue their dreams. I am humbled by this honor, and I am ready to get to work on behalf of all Michiganders."

Bolden spearheaded legislation that works to protect survivors of sexual violence, according to the press release. She helped advance the so-called Medically Frail prison reform package and modification of the Wrongful Imprisonment Compensation Act. She also worked on the Address Confidentiality for Survivors of Domestic Violence package. Bolden is co-chair of the Legislative Attorney's Caucus and chair of the House Democratic Caucus Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee.