One of the three liberals on the Supreme Court, Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson, has found a unique outlet for her frustration being in the minority: boxing. She takes boxing lessons, saying it helps her release any frustrations. Despite the court’s conservative majority, Jackson has added to her list of personal accomplishments, including writing a memoir, “Lovely One,” which briefly topped The New York Times bestseller list.
Jackson’s memoir has been well-received, particularly for her honest portrayal of raising her elder daughter, Talia, who was diagnosed with autism as a child. The judge has been gratified by the reaction she has received from readers, many of whom have identified with her family’s story.
In addition to her literary pursuits, Jackson has also ventured into the world of Broadway. She made her debut in a one-night-only appearance in the musical “& Juliet” in December. Jackson had long aspired to be the first Black female justice on Broadway, and the experience fulfilled that goal.
When asked about the court’s decisions, including the end of affirmative action in college admissions and the grant of broad immunity from criminal prosecution to former presidents, Jackson said she cannot comment on them as they are out of her lane. She did, however, point to one decision in which she sided with the Jan. 6 defendants as an example of her effort to set aside her personal views and judge impartially.
Jackson is proud and honored to be on the court, aware of her groundbreaking role as the first Black woman to serve as a Supreme Court justice. She is also grateful for the support of her colleagues, including Justice Amy Coney Barrett, with whom she has developed a close friendship.