COLUMBIA, S.C. — The South Carolina Legislative Black Caucus has voiced concerns regarding what they perceive as a deficiency in diversity among judges in South Carolina, asserting that it poses a threat to democracy. These concerns were articulated just outside where state lawmakers were deliberating on judicial appointments Wednesday.
"Our Supreme Court, our highest court should be reflective of the population of the state," remarked Spartanburg House Representative Rosalyn Henderson-Myers.
Henderson-Myers, one of only six Black women in the South Carolina House of Representatives, stressed the importance of representation, stating, "When we are at the table we tend to make a difference, so I would implore women as well as minorities to make their voice heard."
Wednesday saw a Senate commission convene to narrow a list of candidates for the state Supreme Court. Depending on the selection made by lawmakers in the coming weeks, the state's highest court may lack Black members after Justice Don Beatty retires later this year.
The Black Caucus insists that not only the state's Supreme Court but also other lower courts throughout South Carolina need to reflect the state's demographic diversity.
"This isn't merely about representation for its own sake, it's about enriching our judicial system with various perspectives that enhance the fairness and impartiality of judicial decisions," emphasized State Representative Annie McDaniel. McDaniel further asserted that the composition of the court directly impacts how South Carolinians perceive judicial rulings.
"As we consider the implications of our current judicial demographics, it is essential to recognize that diversity is not merely symbolic; it directly influences the trust our communities place in the judicial system," McDaniel added.
State Representative Dr. Ivory Thigpen emphasized that diversity in the judiciary transcends gender and ethnicity, encompassing geography, thought, ability, and disability. "We need people with various experiences so our judicial system can be at its best," Thigpen stated.
The Black Caucus affirmed their commitment to educating the public about the necessary changes they believe must be implemented in the judicial system and leadership of South Carolina.