Third Branch eNews

Chief Justice Jill J. Karofsky addressed participants at Badger Girls State on June 25, in her sixth appearance at the program and her first as Chief Justice of the Wisconsin Supreme Court.

Badger Girls State, a program of the American Legion Auxiliary, brings young women from across Wisconsin together to learn about government, leadership, civic responsibility, and public service.

Karofsky encouraged the students to see themselves as future leaders and active participants in democracy. She reflected on the absence of women in the historical paintings that line the Supreme Court hearing room, noting that while women were long left out of the official picture, they have always helped shape history.

“Today six of the seven members of our court are women, the highest percentage of any state supreme court in the country,” Karofsky said. “That matters. Who serves in government matters. Who serves on the courts matters. Who is seen as a leader matters.”

Karofsky also spoke about the example of former Chief Justice Shirley S. Abrahamson, who attended Badger Girls State for many years, and challenged the students to lead with courage, empathy, and integrity so they can carry that example forward.

“When you walk into rooms where decisions are being made, do not wonder whether you belong there,” Chief Justice Karofsky said. “Walk through them. Hold them open for others. And then get to work.”