President Obama has recently nominated Loretta Lynch, a current US Attorney, to serve as his attorney general. If selected, Loretta Lynch will be the first American-American female in the highest ranking law enforcement position.
Loretta Lynch grew up in Greensboro, North Carolina. Growing up, she was fascinated with court proceedings, and this led her to graduating with a doctoral degree in law at Harvard Law School.
According to the Washington Post, during the White House ceremony, Obama said, “I couldn’t be more proud to nominate Loretta Lynch as our next attorney general.”
President Obama also highlighted Lynch’s success as current US Attorney for Eastern New York. In the past, she has prosecuted important cases involving crime, terrorists, and even public officials. Qualified and experienced, there is no doubt that Lynch will be confirmed. Although her success brings her much recognition, Lynch’s first priority is serving the people.
She said, “I will wake up every morning with the protection of the American people my first thought.”
But why is this news important? There has been a long, much needed debate about the lack of female presentation in top positions. However, it is always important to recognize when great strides are being taken to represent diversity. For example, according to USA Today’s article, women are directing departments at federal and local levels of government. The Drug Enforcement Administration and the FBI’s Washington Field Office are both headed by women. These accomplishments acknowledge the fact that there are definitely significant changes being made in regards to women in the workforce. This is particularly encouraging to young women who may want to follow through with their law enforcement careers.
I think it is safe to say that we are making great progress.