Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson describes her journey to the Supreme Court as unexpected. Following President Biden’s nomination in 2022 to succeed retiring Justice Stephen Breyer, she found herself under intense public scrutiny. She noted the curiosity about her life and accomplishments that emerged during the confirmation process, leading her to decide that if her story was to be told, she would be the one to write it.
In her newly released memoir, “Lovely One,” named in honor of her first and middle names from her Aunt Carolynn, Jackson shares personal insights and details about her life that she has not publicly disclosed before. The narrative explores her experiences as the first Black woman on the U.S. Supreme Court and reflects on her family’s roots in the segregated South.
Jackson emphasizes the importance of honoring those who influenced her journey. She recalls significant lessons learned from her grandmother, Euzera Ross, particularly about humility and empathy. A poignant story from her childhood involves finding a note written by her grandmother, which unintentionally led to a lesson about education and respect for others.
The memoir also addresses Jackson’s experiences with motherhood, notably her eldest daughter’s autism diagnosis, which the family had not previously made public. She discusses the challenges and joys of parenting, explaining that disclosing this aspect of her life felt essential, especially as she navigated her nomination to the Supreme Court. Her daughter supported her decision to share their family’s story, underscoring the importance of openness.
Another key topic in the book is Jackson’s relationship with her hair and the professional image she constructed around it. She shares her evolution in embracing her natural hair and how this journey resonated deeply with her professional identity as a lawyer.
Reflecting on her late grandmother’s aspirations for her, Jackson expresses confidence that Euzera would be proud of her achievements, viewing her journey as a fulfillment of the prayers and hopes she held for her granddaughter.
Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson’s memoir, “Lovely One,” is now available, offering a deeper insight into her life and the experiences that have shaped her as a groundbreaking figure in American history.