Judge Patricia Guerrero: The First Latina to serve on California’s Supreme Court

Judge Patricia Guerrero was confirmed to the California Supreme Court on Tuesday and will be sworn in by Governor Newson on Monday, March 28. Justice Guerrero will fill the vacancy vacated by former Associate Justice Mariano-Florentino Cuéllar. Guerrero is now the first Latina to serve on California’s top court, making her an inspiration to the Latine community.

According to the Los Angeles Time, “As I’ve tried to express, this is not just about me, or really even just about my parents, but it’s about so many others just like us,” Guerrero, the child of Mexican immigrants, said, according to the outlet. “This is a story of the American dream, the belief that with hard work, perseverance, and opportunities, anything is possible. And for that I am thankful.”

Guerrero is a native of Imperial Valley and a proud daughter of Mexican immigrants. Her grandfather was the first one to come to the United States through a sponsor, and her father worked in the fields while her mother who recently died of breast cancer was a babysitter. Each shared the same objective to provide their children and future generations with a better life. Due to her parent’s hard work and sacrifices, Guerrero graduated from UC Berkeley and Standford Law School all while working part-time jobs to pay for her education.

As Women’s History Month comes to a close, let us continue to recognize and appreciate women like Justice Patricia Guerrero who are making history now and paving the way for future generations to do the same. Guerrero’s confirmation serves as a reminder that Latina women have a place in our nation and are breaking free from traditional gender roles and expectations.