fbpx
facebook app symbol  twitter  linkedin  instagram 1
 

WASHINGTON — United States Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg has died.

Having been nominated by President Bill Clinton, Justice Ginsburg served on the nation’s highest court since Aug. 10, 1993. The Supreme Court announced on Friday evening that Justice Ginsburg died of pancreatic cancer. She was 87.

Ginsburg opinions on American Indian claims were mixed.

"Justice Ginsburg ruled in favor of the tribes most of the time and we are going to miss her," John E. Echohawk (Pawnee), executive director and founder of the Native American Relief Fund said Friday evening.

Navajo Nation President Jonathan Nez said Justice Ginsburg leaves behind a great legacy of fighting for the rights of all people and upholding the rule of law.

"She was a true champion of justice. Her love and compassion for all people will always be cherished and remembered. Our country is stronger because of her many years of contributions to the U.S. Supreme Court and to Indian Country. We offer our thoughts and prayers for all of her family members, friends, and colleagues,” President Nez said.

U.S. Sen. Tom Udall (D-N.M.), vice chairman of the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs, commented in an email on Friday evening as well.

“Jill and I join the nation in mourning this devastating loss. Justice Ginsburg was a friend to us – and an icon of righteousness for the nation. She inspired us all, but her legacy shines especially bright for the countless women and girls across the nation and world who now proudly walk in her footsteps. Justice Ginsburg fought for fairness above all—for a nation that lives true to its principles—and she brought us ever closer to that ideal," Udall said.

In a historic U.S. Supreme Court decision on July 9 in McGirt v. Oklahoma, which ruled in favor of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation, Justice Ginsburg voted with the majority.

In May 2020, The Buffalo Chronicle reported that Justice Ginsburg told close legal colleagues and clerks that she wants President Donald Trump “to select a Native American jurist as his next nominee to the United States Supreme Court."

 

More Stories Like This

Native News Weekly (August 25, 2024): D.C. Briefs
Native News Weekly (August 4, 2024): D.C. Briefs
Native Bidaské with Oliver (OJ) Semans on the 2024 Election and Wounded Knee Stain Act
17-year-old Chickasaw Youth Ranks Second as USA Archer
Take the Native News Online Readers' Survey

Can we take a minute to talk about tribal sovereignty?

Sovereignty isn't just a concept – it's the foundation of Native nations' right to govern, protect our lands, and preserve our cultures. Every story we publish strengthens tribal sovereignty.

Unlike mainstream media, we center Indigenous voices and report directly from Native communities. When we cover land rights, water protection, or tribal governance, we're not just sharing news – we're documenting our living history and defending our future.

Our journalism is powered by readers, not shareholders. If you believe in the importance of Native-led media in protecting tribal sovereignty, consider supporting our work today. 

Right now, your support goes twice as far. Thanks to a generous $35,000 matching fund, every dollar you give during December 2024 will be doubled to protect sovereignty and amplify Native voices.

No paywalls. No corporate owners. Just independent, Indigenous journalism.

About The Author
Native News Online Staff
Author: Native News Online StaffEmail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Native News Online is one of the most-read publications covering Indian Country and the news that matters to American Indians, Alaska Natives and other Indigenous people. Reach out to us at [email protected].