December 1, 2023

Ms. Foundation on the Passing of Justice Sandra Day O’Connor

NEW YORK (December 1, 2023) – Ms. Foundation for Women President and CEO Teresa C. Younger released the following statement in response to the passing of Justice Sandra Day O’Connor: 

“Today the Ms. Foundation for Women pauses to recognize the life and profound legacy of Justice Sandra Day O’Connor. As the first woman on the United States Supreme Court, Justice O’Connor paved the way for women pursuing law professions. She was a pioneer and a formidable presence during her 24 year career on the top court, demonstrating over the course of her career and even after her retirement a willingness to adjust her position, particularly with respect to LGBTQ+ rights and affirmative action. 

“Justice Sandra Day O’Connor was a powerhouse of American law who was not afraid to challenge the law and society. She understood that her own opinions could conflict with the lived experiences of others, and led her work with respect and empathy for the people she served. We are thinking about her loved ones today and send our sincerest condolences to them during this time.” 

###

For 50 years, the Ms. Foundation for Women has shaped women’s philanthropy in the United States, providing a blueprint for the establishment of hundreds of local and regional women’s funds, influencing mainstream culture through nationwide projects such as Take Our Daughters to Work Day, and making grants totaling over $90 million to more than 1,600 grassroots organizations across the country. Through research, advocacy, and grantmaking, the Ms. Foundation is the national model for sustainable, trust-based philanthropic support of women of color-led movements. With equity and inclusion as the cornerstones of true democracy, the Ms. Foundation works to create a world in which the worth and dignity of every person are valued, and power and possibility are not limited by gender, race, class, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability or age.