Judge Jane Bolin was a trailblazing African American woman who made history as the first Black female judge in the United States. Born on April 11, 1908, in Poughkeepsie, New York, Bolin excelled academically and became the first Black woman to graduate from Yale Law School in 1931.

In 1939, she was appointed as a judge in the New York City Domestic Relations Court by Mayor Fiorello La Guardia, making her not only the first Black woman judge in the United States but also the first woman of any race to serve as a judge in New York State. Bolin served on the bench for more than 40 years, advocating for children and families in the court system.

Throughout her career, Judge Bolin was a strong advocate for civil rights and social justice, using her position to fight against discrimination and inequality. She was a pioneer in the legal field, breaking down barriers for women and people of color in the judiciary.

Judge Jane Bolin's legacy serves as an inspiration to future generations of Black women in law and continues to be celebrated for her contributions to the advancement of civil rights and equality in America.