WASHINGTON D.C. — Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, a pioneering figure and champion of justice, has passed away at the age of 87 after battling metastatic pancreas cancer.
Chief Justice John Roberts delivered a poignant tribute, remarking, “Our nation has lost a justice of historic stature… Today we mourn but with confidence that future generations will remember Ruth Bader Ginsburg as we knew her, a tireless and resolute champion of justice.”
Ginsburg, renowned for her unwavering commitment to progressive causes, left an indelible mark on the Supreme Court. Appointed by President Bill Clinton on August 10, 1993, she filled the vacancy left by Justice Byron White, becoming only the second woman to serve on the Court.
“Justice Ginsburg paved the way for so many women, including me,” shared former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton (D) on social media. “There will never be another like her. Thank you RBG.”
In a statement released by the Supreme Court, Ginsburg was described as a trailblazer who served with distinction for over 27 years. She leaves behind a legacy of dedication to the law and a relentless pursuit of equality.
Born in Brooklyn, New York, on March 15, 1933, Ginsburg married Martin D. Ginsburg in 1954. She obtained her B.A. from Cornell University, attended Harvard Law School, and received her LL.B. from Columbia Law School. Before ascending to the Supreme Court, she held various esteemed positions, including serving as a law clerk, a professor of law, and a judge on the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit.
Throughout her illustrious career, Ginsburg was a fervent advocate for women’s rights, playing a pivotal role in launching the Women’s Rights Project of the American Civil Liberties Union in 1971.
In addition to her legal contributions, Ginsburg authored “My Own Words” in 2016, a collection of her speeches and writings, offering insights into her remarkable journey and legal philosophy.
A private interment service will be held at Arlington National Cemetery to honor Ginsburg’s remarkable life and legacy. She is survived by her two children, four grandchildren, two step-grandchildren, and one great-grandchild. Her husband, Martin David Ginsburg, passed away in 2010, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to inspire generations to come.
