Hispanics for a Fair Judiciary convened leaders from the Arizona Latino community to discuss the importance of federal judicial appointments, the impact of state and federal courts on public policy and Arizona communities, and the broader implications of specific federal judicial appointments for Arizona. Two of the presenters released the following statements:

The Honorable Mina Mendez, Retired Commissioner: Maricopa County Superior Court: “The courts in Arizona and throughout America should reflect the people they serve. Today, not enough Hispanics serve as part of the judiciary. This event is designed to begin a dialogue within the Hispanic community and to spur our leaders to focus on judicial vacancies that currently exist across the nation.”

Jason M. Barraza, President of Los Abogados, Arizona Hispanic Bar Association:

“The real world policy consequences of having an underrepresented voice in the judiciary are serious, not just for Hispanics but for all Americans. Due process, access to a fair trial, the ability to bring suit against those who do us harm - all of these rights are in danger without a full and representative state and federal bench. Working together we can address the disparities in this regard and ensure that our voice is heard for generations to come.”