September 2025 President's Letter

Dear Sisters and Allies in the Law:

I hope you had a restful Labor Day weekend. It served as a powerful reminder of the hard work and perseverance of union members, and their commitment to creating a healthier work-life balance for all. 

This month, I want to share some reflections from the American Bar Annual Meeting in Toronto, where NAWJ was honored with the ABA Judicial Division's Law and Justice Award. The conference was an extraordinary experience, offering a chance to connect with lawyers, judges, law students, and partners who share our deep commitment to the rule of law. It was inspiring to see a renewed dedication to the foundational principles of our justice system—that all are created equal and entitled to the rights and protections of the Constitution, and that a strong system of checks and balances is essential.

Celebrating the Margaret Brent Honorees A special thank you goes to Past President and current International Director Judge Bernadette D'Souza, who so graciously facilitated my position on the ABA Commission on Women in the Profession. Attending my first commission meeting in Toronto was a powerful experience. It was especially exciting to celebrate this year's Margaret Brent Women Lawyers of Achievement Award recipients, including three remarkable judges: NAWJ's own Judge Holly J. Fujie and Senior Associate Justice Anita Earls of the NC Supreme Court, and retired Toronto judge Maryka Omatsu. We also honor the equally impressive attorneys Brigette Marsh and Jami Wintz McKeon. I invite you to celebrate these phenomenal women by watching the incredible videos on the ABA website: https://www.americanbar.org/groups/diversity/women/margaret-brent-awards/2025-brent-honorees/

NAWJ Receives the Law and Justice Award I was so proud to accept the ABA Judicial Division's Law and Justice Award on behalf of NAWJ at a lovely reception in Toronto. The number of our members present was a testament to our organization's strength and reputation. Similarly, this award is a testament to the collective efforts of our membership. As I said that night, it is an honor I proudly share with you all. A significant part of this recognition belongs to the tireless work on two of our most impactful projects: 

The Informed Voter Project
This project, inspired by the legacy of NAWJ member Justice Sandra Day O’Connor, continues to thrive thanks to the dedication of leaders like Judith McConnell, Chief Justice Deborah Stephens, Justice Robin Hudson, and Annette Pitts and all members on this committee. Their work ensures Justice O’Connor's vision remains a vital part of civic education.

The Afghani Women Judges Resettlement Project
The monumental efforts to support the 55 Afghani women judges and their families highlight the heart and mission of NAWJ. While many members have contributed extensively to meet the needs of the Afghani judges and their families, I want to specifically recognize the compassion and leadership of Judges Lisa Walsh, Vanessa Ruiz, Bev Cutler, Nadia Keilani, Doreen Boxer, Selena Epley, Nahal Iravani-Sani, Patricia Whalen, Linda Murnane, Carolyn Temin, and the many partners who have given generously. This work is a beacon of hope and a powerful expression of our values.

That is all for now.  If you haven't yet, don't forget to register for the annual conference.  Chief Justice Amy Blake and committee have done a magnificent job planning this event.  You won't want to miss out!

Best,

The Honorable Michelle Rick
President, National Association of Women Judges