Q: What does "diversity on the bench" mean?
A: Diversity on the bench means having judges with a wide range of backgrounds. This includes differences in race, ethnicity, income level, age, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, where they come from, and their experiences in law and life.
Q: Why is diversity on the bench important?
A: Diverse judges bring different life experiences and viewpoints, which can help them notice and challenge hidden biases and stereotypes.
Also, diversity among judges helps improve people's trust in the courts. It makes the system seem fairer and reduces the feeling that decisions are biased. And it shows a commitment to fairness, inclusion, and making sure everyone has access to justice.
Q: How does diversity on the bench improve public trust and confidence in the legal system?
A: When judges reflect the diverse backgrounds of the communities they serve, people are more likely to feel that the justice system understands their situations and that they will be treated fairly. People are more likely to trust the system more and feel confident in its decisions.
Also, diverse judges provide role models and show that careers in law and as judges are possible for everyone.
For more information about diversity on the bench, visit these websites:
- The Judicial Diversity Outreach Program, based within the Colorado Judicial Branch, https://www.coloradojudicial.gov/court-services/judicial-diversity.
- The Diversity on the Bench Coalition, a multi-partner collaboration led by the Colorado Bar Association and the Colorado Judicial Institute, https://www.cobar.org/For-Members/Diversity-on-the-Bench.
