“I am honored and privileged to represent the HNBA and testify before the House Judiciary Committee’s Subcommittee on Courts, the Internet, and Intellectual Property at a hearing entitled, The Importance of a Diverse Federal Judiciary, Part 2: The Selection and Confirmation Process. My testimony focuses on: challenges in the procedural processes; how personal bias in the confirmation process limits opportunities for qualified Hispanics seeking to serve on the Federal Bench; and how key decision makers can effect change.” Elia explained, “A more inclusive process that incorporates a wider breadth of practice areas, schools, institutions, experiences, and expertise will naturally lead to more diverse pool of candidates. Inherently, a more inclusive process will also lead to mentorship as well as a pipeline to the judiciary. Key decision makers can affect change by expanding where they look for qualified individuals. Only then can diverse individuals compete without barriers. Justice is blind, but our biases will continue unless we make a meaningful change in how judges are selected.”
The HNBA will continue to work on behalf of the Hispanic community to increase diversity in the Federal Judiciary.
Lugenbuhl celebrates Elia, the contributions she has made through her work with the HNBA, and the positive impact she has on the Hispanic community.
Elia’s full testimony.
Click here to review the hearings.
Visit Elia’s online profile.
