The question of judicial representation in Virginia has long been central to the integrity of our system of justice. For more than four centuries, the Commonwealth’s judiciary was composed exclusively of white male jurists. That changed during my tenure, when I was able to secure the appointment of an African American to a general district court. That initial step was followed by continued progress, extending to courts of record and ultimately to the Supreme Court of Virginia.
The progress of judicial representation in Virginia reflects a long and deliberate arc toward inclusion and fairness. A defining milestone came on January 30, 1974, when the Virginia General Assembly elected Willard H. Douglas Jr. as judge of the Richmond Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court, making him the first officially elected, full-time African American judge in Virginia. His service marked a turning point in the Commonwealth’s judicial history and was later distinguished by his appointment as the first African American to serve on the Ethics Committee of the Supreme Court of Virginia. That progress has continued over time, reflecting a broader commitment to ensuring that the judiciary more fully embodies the principles of fairness and equal justice under the law.
Today, that progress is reflected in the historic leadership of Chief Justice Cleo E. Powell, the first African American woman to lead the Supreme Court of Virginia, a milestone that speaks to both how far the Commonwealth has come and the responsibility it continues to bear.
Yesterday, I had the opportunity to discuss these matters in an interview with Jeff Katz on WRVA. Our conversation reflected not only on how far Virginia has come, but also on the continued importance of nonpartisan political and public confidence in a judiciary that is both fair and representative. The strength of our courts rests not only in their rulings, but in the trust they inspire.
Yet, even as these advancements were taking shape at the state level, Virginia once remained without representation on the federal bench. That absence underscored the work still to be done.
One day, while in my office, I received a call from Senator Chuck Robb. He spoke of a vacancy on the United States Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit and indicated his intention to nominate me. He expressed confidence that confirmation would be secured without difficulty. While deeply appreciative of his confidence, I respectfully suggested that he instead consider my former law partner, Roger Gregory.
I had come to know Roger first as a student in my constitutional law course at Virginia State (College) University, and later as a trusted colleague in our firm, Wilder, Gregory and Associates. I believed then, as I do now, that he possessed the intellect, temperament, and integrity required for such a distinguished role. After giving the matter consideration, Senator Robb agreed to explore the nomination.
I immediately contacted Roger, who received the idea with humility and a willingness to serve.
Through a determined and collaborative effort, Roger Gregory was ultimately nominated and confirmed with bipartisan support, including that of President Bill Clinton, President George W. Bush, and Senator George Allen. This achievement did not occur by chance. It required the steadfast support of my friend Elaine Jones, Director of the NAACP Legal Defense Fund, as well as Deputy Director Leslie Proll, and many others who committed their time and energy to the rigorous preparation required for confirmation.
Judge Gregory’s service on the court, next senior the United States Supreme Court, has been exemplary. As Chief Judge of the Fourth Circuit, he has contributed meaningfully to the advancement of justice in our nation. He has served as a mentor to countless young clerks and as a principled voice for fairness and equality under the law.
His journey reminds us of the enduring truth captured in the words of an old spiritual: “I never told you the road would be easy.” Yet through perseverance and purpose, he has helped to make that road more just for others.
Stay tuned.
