Senate Confirmation Hearing

Last week I traveled to Washington, D.C. to witness history in the making. A long-time friend and colleague, Jimmie Reyna, had his Senate confirmation hearing for his appointment to the United States Court of Appeals-District of Columbia Circuit. Mr. Reyna was appointed to the appellate position by President Obama in September 2010. Attending the senate confirmation hearings was truly an historic event, as Mr. Reyna, if confirmed, will be the first minority jurist on the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals. Additionally, once the confirmation process is concluded, Mr. Reyna will be the second highest ranked Hispanic Justice in the country behind Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor. Mr. Reyna has previously served as the Hispanic National Bar Association (HNBA) President and was also a founding member of the HNBA Journal of Law & Policy, along with myself. Mr. Reyna has been a mentor to many Hispanic lawyers around the country and his influence and leadership is a true testament to his dedication to his profession, family, and community. In his closing remarks in front of the Senate Judiciary Committee, Mr. Reyna stated, “my parents dreamed the American dream, and I am living that dream.” I am honored to join thousands of supporters hoping the Senate confirms Mr. Reyna quickly. It also brings me great pleasure to follow in Mr. Reyna’s footsteps, as I will soon assume the position of HNBA President this September at the HNBA Annual Convention in Dallas, Texas.