The National Association of Latino Elected and Appointed Officials (NALEO) today expressed its strong support for the appointment of a highly qualified Latino or Latina from the legal profession to replace retiring Justice Carlos R. Moreno on the California Supreme Court. Justice Moreno is only the third Latino to serve in the court's nearly 150-year history, and the first in more than a decade.
"A Latino or Latina Supreme Court Justice will bring a unique perspective and life experience to the California Supreme Court. As the highest court of the state, it is necessary that this body reflect California's diversity," wrote NALEO Executive Director Arturo Vargas in a letter to Gov. Jerry Brown. "Inclusion of Latino decision makers in our legal institutions is necessary for the continued growth and progress of our state."
NALEO wishes to express its deep appreciation for Justice Moreno's service. When he was sworn-in to serve on the state's highest court in 2001, Justice Moreno chose to relinquish a lifetime seat on the U.S. District Court in order to serve his native state. We are indebted to Justice Moreno and wish him well in his future endeavors.
About NALEO
The National Association of Latino Elected and Appointed Officials is the leadership organization of the nation's more than 6,000 Latino elected and appointed officials.
Contacts:
NALEO
Patricia Guadalupe, 202-546-2536
pguadalupe@naleo.org
