The Ebell of Los Angeles hosted an inspiring celebration for Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson’s latest memoir, “Lovely One,” drawing an enthusiastic crowd to the historic Ebell Theatre on September 17. Moderated by acclaimed filmmaker Ava Duvernay, the event featured Jackson reading an excerpt from her preface, offering a glimpse into her extraordinary journey as the first Black woman appointed to the Supreme Court of the United States.
“Lovely One” is more than just a memoir; it is a testament to resilience and achievement. In this #1 New York Times bestseller, Justice Jackson chronicles her family’s ascent from segregation to her confirmation on America’s highest court, illuminating the personal and collective struggles faced by her ancestors. Named “Ketanji Onyika,” meaning “lovely one,” by her aunt, Jackson shares how her educator parents instilled in her a deep pride in her heritage and an unyielding ambition from an early age.
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Throughout her narrative, Jackson invites readers to witness her evolution—from a girl captivated by the stories of her grandparents to a distinguished legal mind navigating a profession where few looked like her. She candidly discusses the challenges of balancing her demanding career with the joys of motherhood, all while breaking barriers that have historically impeded Black women in law.
In her conversation with Duvernay, Justice Jackson reflected on her upbringing and the unwavering support of her parents, who invested in her education and dreams at every turn.
“I was born in 1970 to parents who had grown up under segregation, just five or six years after the Civil Rights Act was passed. My parents saw this new world as their shot, a chance to invest in my future. My mother taught me how to read by the time I was two, and they made every effort to ensure I had the opportunities they were denied. Their dream was for me to realize my own, to break the barriers they faced, and to thrive in a world that had only recently begun to open up for people like us,” she shared.
“Preparing for those moments felt like an intense job interview, the ultimate test of composure and integrity,” she said reflecting on her confirmation hearings. “I had to show that I could remain calm under scrutiny, to demonstrate that I could handle the pressure without losing my sense of self. I learned that it was essential to understand what was being asked of me—not just to answer questions, but to connect with the humanity behind them. It was a moment not just for me, but for every little girl who dreams of being in a position of power, showing them that they too could achieve their ambitions with dignity and grace.”
During her discussion on race and gender, Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson emphasized the importance of integrity in her role as a judge. “My duty is to remain impartial and neutral; that’s what judges do when they take the bench. I take my oath seriously, promising to rule without fear or favor, she stated. “However, I also understand that my presence as the first Black woman on the Supreme Court carries a weight of responsibility. It’s vital for young people, especially those from marginalized backgrounds, to see that anyone can hold this position. I hope that my journey illustrates that achieving a high standard of excellence is possible, regardless of race or gender, as long as one approaches their responsibilities with integrity and dedication.”
The Ebell of LA, a pillar of the community and the home of the nation’s oldest theatre built and operated by women, provided a fitting backdrop for this celebration. Founded in 1894, The Ebell is dedicated to the advancement of women and has been a vibrant center for arts and culture in Los Angeles for over a century. Its historic theatre, which remains a venue for groundbreaking performances and events, embodies the spirit of empowerment that Justice Jackson’s memoir captures.
As the hardcover of “Lovely One” hits the shelves at major retailers for $35, this memoir stands as a beacon of hope, encouraging readers to strive for a more just world—one story at a time. The event at The Ebell not only celebrated Justice Jackson’s accomplishments but also served as a powerful reminder of the potential within each of us to effect change.
