April 2026 President's Letter

As we step into April and welcome the promise of spring, I find myself reflecting with deep gratitude on the extraordinary month we shared in March. Women’s History Month gave us a powerful opportunity to celebrate the legacy, leadership, and lasting impact of women judges—both within NAWJ and across the globe. From courtrooms to communities, your work continues to shape justice in ways that are seen, felt, and experienced. 

This year’s celebration of the International Day of Women Judges was especially meaningful. Across the country and around the world, NAWJ and IAWJ members stood in unity with our sisters in the judiciary—honoring not only how far we have come, but also the bridges we continue to build for those who will follow.
 
I had the distinct honor of representing NAWJ in New York City during the New York City Bar’s 2026 Sixth International Law Conference on the Status of Women. It was, quite literally, “raining” NAWJ members—and what a joy it was to be surrounded by such brilliance, purpose, and connection. Whether at the New York City Bar event, the International Association of Women Judges reception at Rockefeller Center, or during my meeting with Justice Elvira Azimova of the Constitutional Court of Kazakhstan at the Permanent Mission of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the United Nations, I was reminded that NAWJ’s reach is both national and global—and deeply impactful.
 
What filled me most was not just the recognition of excellence, but the spirit of welcome. I had the pleasure of meeting so many new members—each one bringing her own voice, experience, and strength to our collective mission. This is how we continue building bridges—by expanding our circle, strengthening our ties, and ensuring that every woman judge knows she belongs here.
 
I want to extend a special note of gratitude to NAWJ member the Honorable (Ret.) Linda Murnane—one of my personal “judge crushes”—for nominating me for the Huntington Her Hero Lifetime Achievement Award. I was deeply honored to receive this award at the New York City Bar International Women’s Day Gala alongside my friend and Immediate Past President, Michelle Rick, and longtime member Chief Judge Yvette A. Ayala Henderson.
 
I also want to extend a heartfelt “shout-out” to District Director Yadhira Gonzalez-Taylor, Executive Board Secretary Leslie Stroth, and Justice Vaino Spencer Leadership Award Recipient Kathy King. Thank you for the warmest New York welcome and for representing NAWJ with such grace, leadership, and excellence. 
 
Moments like these are a powerful reminder of the strength, support, and sisterhood that define NAWJ.  It is more than an organization—it is a community, a network, and truly, a home. Each of you is a vital part of the foundation we are building together.
 
As we move into April, let us carry forward the energy of March. Spring is a season of renewal and growth—a perfect time to recommit ourselves to mentorship, connection, and service. I encourage each of you to continue reaching out, welcoming new members, and strengthening the ties that make NAWJ so unique. Together, we are building bridges that will endure.
 
With gratitude and pride,

The Honorable Pamela Scott Washington
President, National Association of Women Judges