Newest Illinois Supreme Court justice is getting used to her new duties

Posted on August 22, 2022
Justice Lisa Holder White, 54, is a Decatur native who most recently served as an appellate judge for more than a decade. (Photo courtesy HOI ABC)

By Dave Dahl

SPRINGFIELD – The newest member of the Illinois Supreme Court, Justice Lisa Holder White, is a true trailblazer.

“I’m very honored to be the first Black woman, and, quite frankly, I’m thankful for the people who came before me who maybe didn’t have that type of opportunity,” Holder White said during an interview at the Illinois State Fair. “ And I’m determined to set a good example, do a good job, and make them proud.”

Holder White’s view is unlike those who believed that, a little Black girl would never see an example such as herself on the highest court in the state.

Holder White said her parents “raised us to believe that if you work hard, you’re honest, have integrity, that doors will open for you. My mom loves to say, cream rises to the top. Bloom where you’re planted.”

Holder White, 54, is a Decatur native who most recently served as an appellate judge for more than a decade.

Dave Dahl can be reached at [email protected]

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