If you’re ever stuck in a meeting that won’t end, instead of whiling away the time by scrolling through social media, I suggest something even more entertaining. Open your computer’s browser and search the phrase “silly laws.” But given that you’re supposed to be paying attention to your boss, whatever you do, don’t bust out in laughter. There’s the strict no-nap policy in Illinois cheese factories, the law against giving Ohio fish alcohol and the third-degree misdemeanor for administering love potions in Pennsylvania. Crazy, right? So, the next time you accidentally tell your boss, “I love you,” before hanging up the phone, remember that everyone—even entire territories in these great United States—do some pretty wackadoo things.
WOMEN IN NUMBERS: 34 Percent
You don’t have to be a numbers gal to see that today’s statistic doesn’t add up. While women attend law school at about the same rate as men, they make up only 34 percent of professional lawyers. Not only can it be challenging for a female lawyer to land a position at a law firm and be taken seriously, but once she does so, she’ll likely earn only about 79 percent of what her male counterparts rake in.
WOMAN TO WATCH: Jasmine Twitty, Associate Judge
Today’s Woman to Watch is the awe-inspiring Jasmine Twitty, who made history when she became the youngest judge, at age 25, to ever be appointed or elected in the United States.
Let’s put in perspective just how groundbreaking Jasmine’s ascent was. It wasn’t until 1869 that the first woman was allowed to become a licensed lawyer in the United States, and it wasn’t until 1921 that a woman was appointed to the position of municipal judge. Nearly a century later, Jasmine has proved that, with the right attitude and a whole heck of a lot of hard work, one’s sex, age and skin color don’t matter when it comes to excelling in the legal field.
As you might imagine of this industrious trailblazer, Jasmine is all about pushing through barriers. As an African-American judge for the municipal court in Easley, South Carolina—a predominately white town—Jasmine has a lot on her shoulders. But that’s nothing new to this millennial brainiac, who studied political science and kicked off her legal career by spending long hours working as a night clerk for a bond court—a position that solidified Jasmine’s goal of becoming a judge. So, she got to work, completing the rigorous training and testing required in her state to become a judicial powerhouse.
When recalling her childhood, Jasmine admits she was one of those girls who was often thought of as “mouthy,” but given her impressive vocabulary and book smarts, her parents encouraged her rather than tamping down her intellect. And since her mother was a dedicated social worker, Jasmine was raised to respect and engage with public service, a significant factor in her desire to become a judge.
When she’s not busy holding court, Jasmine works with her local chapter of LeadHer, which she co-founded, an organization that empowers women in career development. So, yeah, needless to say, Jasmine is a wonderful role model for any number of women.
In fact, we’re so encouraged by Jasmine’s story that we’re going to go ahead and predict that some day, we’ll see Jasmine named to the Supreme Court. You heard it here first!
QUITE THE QUOTE
With Jasmine Twitty in mind, I’ll bid you adieu today with a quote from a woman who knows a thing or two about making history, Hillary Clinton. She said:
“Always aim high, work hard and care deeply about what you believe in. And when you stumble, keep faith. And when you’re knocked down, get right back up and never listen to anyone who says you can’t or shouldn’t go on.”
This is Melinda Garvey signing off until next time. Remember, ladies, empowered women empower other women. Share On the Dot so more women can have a voice. Thanks for getting ready with us.
To learn more about our conversation, check us out at OnTheDotWoman.com and talk to us @OnTheDotWoman on Twitter and Instagram. We’d love to hear your voice.