Statement on the Passing of Justice Cruz Reynoso

Dear Civil Rights and Social Justice Section Members:

We mourn the loss of Justice Cruz Reynoso, who served our Section dutifully as Chair from 1981-1982. Justice Reynoso became the first Latino appointed to the California Supreme Court, serving from 1982-1987. Described by colleagues as compassionate and humble, he received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2000 for his public service and his efforts to address social inequities.  As members of the CRSJ section, we understand that the same information must be accessible to all for equality to exist.  Justice Reynoso proudly applied that principle to the law when he issued an opinion granting access to interpreters for limited English proficient California litigants. In addition to his dedication to our very own Section, he also served as vice chairman of the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights from 1993-2004. Throughout his career, even before he served on the bench, he took the rights and liberties we all hold dear seriously, while simultaneously adhering to the rule of law with integrity, humility, and independence. In his memory, we will strive to do the same.

May he rest peacefully. 

Angela J. Scott, 2020-21 Section Chair, ABA Section of Civil Rights and Social Justice

Angela J. Scott is the 2020-21 Chair of the ABA Section of Civil Rights and Social Justice and past member of the ABA Commission on Disability Rights. The views expressed in this message are her own opinions. She has written this message in her personal capacity and not on behalf of her employer, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, or any component of the U.S. government. This message has not been approved by the ABA House of Delegates or Board of Governors, and it does not constitute an official statement of the American Bar Association.