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Start for freeJustice Ketanji Brown Jackson Addresses Boston University Law School Graduates
In a captivating commencement address to the Boston University Law School Class of 2023, Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson shared invaluable insights drawn from her personal experiences and love for musical theater. Her speech, rich with wisdom and encouragement, offered the graduating class a unique perspective on navigating the legal profession and life beyond.
The Power of Adaptation in a Changing Legal Landscape
Justice Jackson began by acknowledging the rapid changes that can occur in one's professional journey. Drawing from her own experiences, she emphasized the importance of adaptation:
"My professional story is truly exhibit A of how quickly things can change and how adaptation is one of the keys to success, which you will all soon discover as graduates of this fine institution."
She encouraged the graduates to embrace the excitement of change while recognizing the challenges that come with new roles and responsibilities in the legal profession.
Finding Constants Amidst Change
One of the key pieces of advice Justice Jackson offered was to focus on constants - aspects of life outside the law that bring joy and stability:
"When I'm in unfamiliar surroundings facing new and daunting challenges, one of the things I do is to focus on the constants - the things outside the law that form a central part of my life and that bring me joy."
For Justice Jackson, this constant has been her love for the performing arts, particularly musical theater. She shared how this passion has grounded and inspired her throughout her career.
Lessons from Musical Theater
Justice Jackson creatively wove lessons from three musicals into her address, each offering valuable insights for the graduating lawyers:
1. Little Shop of Horrors: The Importance of Asking "Why"
Reflecting on her experience in a college production of Little Shop of Horrors, Justice Jackson emphasized the importance of questioning and understanding situations:
"The lesson I draw from the show and what I want you to remember as you practice is to always start by asking why when you confront a new situation."
She explained how this approach can be applied in legal practice:
- When interpreting statutes, consider why Congress wrote the law in a particular way
- In practical tasks, understand the reasoning behind specific requests from partners or clients
- In relationships with colleagues and opposing counsel, seek to understand motivations and concerns
2. Hamilton: Getting in "The Room Where It Happens"
Justice Jackson drew inspiration from the hit musical Hamilton, particularly the song "The Room Where It Happens," to encourage active participation and initiative:
"My advice for you is when an issue arises that you care deeply about, whether it's in your local community or society more broadly, or even just within your specific workplace, don't sit back and take a passive role. Do something about it."
She offered practical suggestions for engagement:
- Get involved in local organizations related to causes you care about
- Seek out pro bono cases in areas of interest
- Join state bar committees and seek leadership opportunities
- Utilize networks and connections built during law school
3. American Prophet: The Power of Words and Framing
Discussing the musical about Frederick Douglass, Justice Jackson highlighted the importance of effective communication in the legal profession:
"Words matter, and that the framing does too. It's not just what you say that leaves an impact, it's also how you say it and how you get your message through to the people you are trying to convince."
She shared insights from her experience as a district judge, particularly in sentencing hearings:
- Clear communication is crucial for promoting rehabilitation
- Intentional word choice can increase persuasiveness
- Presenting points in different ways can enhance understanding and impact
Preparing for an Unpredictable Future
Justice Jackson concluded her address by reminding the graduates of the unpredictable nature of their future careers:
"I was sitting where you are, graduating from law school and excited about the future, not all that long ago, and I could not possibly have predicted that my professional path would lead to where I am today."
She encouraged the graduates to remain open to possibilities and to recognize their potential for making significant contributions to the legal profession and society at large.
Key Takeaways for New Lawyers
Justice Jackson distilled her advice into several key points:
- Find grounding activities outside of law to maintain balance
- Always question and seek to understand new situations
- Actively engage in issues you care about
- Communicate effectively, paying attention to both words and framing
- Remain open to unexpected opportunities and career paths
The Role of Lawyers in Promoting Justice
In her closing remarks, Justice Jackson emphasized the important role that the graduating class will play in society:
"As graduates of Boston University Law School, you are well equipped to go out into the community in whatever capacity you choose and to make momentous contributions. Thanks to your professors, your peers, and the hard work that you have done up to this point, you know how to think critically and argue persuasively, and you are fully prepared to join the legions of other lawyers across the country who are doing the work of promoting the rule of law and modeling civil interactions throughout this challenging time."
Conclusion: A Call to Action for New Lawyers
Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson's commencement address to the Boston University Law School Class of 2023 was more than just a congratulatory speech. It was a call to action, inspiring the new graduates to embrace change, seek understanding, actively participate in important issues, and communicate effectively.
By drawing parallels between musical theater and the legal profession, Justice Jackson provided a unique and memorable framework for the graduates to approach their careers. Her personal anecdotes and experiences offered tangible examples of how to navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
As these new lawyers embark on their professional journeys, they carry with them not only the knowledge and skills acquired during their time at Boston University Law School but also the wisdom and inspiration imparted by Justice Jackson. Her words serve as a reminder of the potential each graduate has to make a meaningful impact on the legal system and society as a whole.
The Class of 2023 stands at the threshold of their legal careers, armed with education, determination, and the inspiring words of a Supreme Court Justice. As they step into the "room where it happens," they are well-prepared to ask the important questions, actively engage in crucial issues, and effectively communicate their ideas to bring about positive change.
Justice Jackson's address serves as a powerful reminder that the legal profession is not just about interpreting laws and arguing cases. It's about understanding the "why" behind legal issues, actively participating in the process of justice, and using one's words and actions to make a lasting impact on the world.
As these new graduates move forward in their careers, they carry with them the responsibility and the opportunity to shape the future of the legal profession and contribute to a more just society. With the lessons learned from their education and the inspiring words of Justice Jackson, they are well-equipped to face the challenges ahead and make their mark on the legal landscape.
The journey that lies ahead for these new lawyers is filled with potential and possibility. By embracing the lessons from musical theater - asking why, getting in the room where it happens, and recognizing the power of words - they can navigate their careers with purpose and impact. As they do so, they will not only advance their own professional goals but also contribute to the ongoing work of promoting justice and upholding the rule of law in our society.
In the words of Justice Jackson, "Welcome to the legal profession." The stage is set, the curtain is rising, and it's time for these new lawyers to step into the spotlight and play their part in the ongoing drama of justice and law in America.
Article created from: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=idUqcMItAW0
