Jane Bolin was a trailblazing African American legal pioneer and the first Black woman to graduate from Yale Law School. She was also the first Black woman to serve as a judge in the United States. Bolin was appointed as a judge in the New York City Domestic Relations Court in 1939 by Mayor Fiorello La Guardia.

Throughout her career, Bolin advocated for equal rights and social justice, particularly for children and families impacted by poverty and discrimination. She was a strong advocate for the rights of African American children and fought against racial segregation in schools and housing. Bolin faced significant challenges and discrimination as a Black woman in the legal profession during a time when racism and sexism were pervasive.

Despite these challenges, Judge Jane Bolin continued to break barriers and make a lasting impact on the legal profession and civil rights movement. Her legacy as a courageous and pioneering advocate for justice and equality continues to inspire generations of activists and legal professionals.