Motley was appointed to the federal judiciary, a historic first.
On January 25, 1966, President Lyndon B. Johnson appointed Constance Baker Motley to the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York, making her the first Black woman in the federal judiciary. Her appointment was a groundbreaking development, signifying progressive strides in diversifying the judiciary system. Motley’s presence on the bench opened doors for minorities and women in legal professions that had been historically inaccessible. Her judicial decisions often reflected a deep commitment to justice and equality, establishing precedents in cases concerning civil rights and social justice. Her momentous appointment embodied a new era in American justice system, symbolizing hope and equality.