Kyra Harris Bolden has etched her name in history as the first Black woman appointed to the Michigan Supreme Court.
Recently sworn in by Governor Gretchen Whitmer, Bolden, at 34, succeeds Justice Bridget Mary McCormack, marking a significant milestone in Michigan’s legal landscape.
Bolden draws motivation from her family’s tragic history; her great-grandfather was lynched in 1939 in Tennessee for simply asking for a store receipt.
This dark legacy fueled Bolden’s journey through law school and her commitment to working within the justice system.
As the sole Black and youngest member of the Michigan Supreme Court, Bolden aspires to be a trailblazer for young and diverse voices in the legal field.
Her goal is to inspire greater diversity and ensure equal access to justice during her tenure.
With a background as a civil litigator, county court staff lawyer, and public defense attorney, Bolden brings a wealth of legal experience to her new role. Elected as a state representative in 2018, she has focused on bipartisan criminal justice reforms.
Bolden’s personal connection to injustice has fueled her determination to uphold justice for all in Michigan.
Her commitment extends beyond her own career, aiming to leave a legacy of integrity for her newborn daughter and future generations.
For Kyra Harris Bolden, her journey from her great-grandfather’s tragic lynching in 1939 to her historic seat on Michigan’s highest court reflects the grace of possibility.
