On September 18, 2020, the United States lost the leader, activist, and icon that is Ruth Bader Ginsburg. While many may recognize her name, few understand the profound impact Ginsburg had on the legislation that shapes our society today and the movements that push for a brighter tomorrow. 

Attending Harvard and Columbia University Law Schools in a time when women rarely pursued advanced careers, and launching the ACLU’s Women’s Rights Project in a time when the struggle for civil rights was at its peak, Ginsburg epitomized the definition of a fearless trailblazer. After establishing herself in her legal career, she became the leading women’s rights litigator in United States history, defending victims that were discriminated against on the basis of gender.

Her tireless legal work eventually led to her appointment as a Supreme Court Justice in 1993. She became the second female to ever hold the position, and she established herself as the leading advocate in the Supreme Court for gender equality. Over her 27 years on the court, she emerged as a champion of progressive causes, never being afraid to sway majority opinions or dissent against rulings in order to stand up for what she believed in.

While a Supreme Court Justice in Washington D.C. may seem far removed from our community, Ruth Bader Ginsburg can be a role model to any student who wishes to continue the fight for equality of all kinds.

As Ginsburg once said, “Real change, enduring change, happens one step at a time.” 

So, Hiller Nation, be the change you wish to see in the world, and have the confidence to make a positive impact one act at a time. If we all carry the tenacity, bravery and passion that Ruth Bader Ginbug embodied, then we can carry on her legacy and continue to promote equality in the world around us.