NCAI and NARF Applaud The Senate’s Confirmation of the First Native American Woman to the Federal Bench in Oklahoma
Today, The National Congress of American Indians (NCAI), the Native American Rights Fund (NARF), and the National Native American Bar Association (NNABA) celebrate the confirmation of Judge Sara Hill to serve on the United States District Court for the Northern District of Oklahoma.
Judge Hill, who is a citizen of the Cherokee Nation, is the first Native American woman confirmed for a lifetime judicial appointment in the state. With Oklahoma home to 39 federally recognized Tribal Nations, her confirmation is not just an historic milestone but a meaningful step forward in ensuring the federal judiciary reflects the communities it serves. Further, as the only active Native American federal judge in Oklahoma, Judge Hill brings a critical perspective and deep knowledge of federal Indian law.
“Judge Hill’s extensive experience serving the Cherokee Nation provides a strong background for her work in the Northern District of Oklahoma,” said NARF Executive Director John Echohawk. “Her confirmation is an important and necessary milestone and serves as a reminder that continuing to increase Native representation at a federal level is needed.”
“NCAI applauds both President Biden’s nomination of Sara Hill, and the Senate’s confirmation of her as the first-ever Native American woman to sit on the federal bench in the state of Oklahoma,” said National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) President Mark Macarro. “Judge Hill brings with her an unparalleled experience in law and policy to our justice system, including a depth of understanding of tribal sovereignty that is far too often lacking on the judicial bench.”
“Sara Hill exemplifies Native excellence and legal leadership through her success as a litigator, policy advocate, and senior tribal government official for the Cherokee Nation.” said National Native American Bar Association President Makalika Naholowaa. “This is a truly historic confirmation. Ms. Hill will be only the 10th Native American Article III federal judge to ever serve in the judiciary throughout US history. We are grateful to the Biden Administration and Senators who supported this historic nomination and confirmation. We look forward to following the honorable Judge Hill’s successful judicial career and representation of Native American women in the judiciary.”
NCAI, NARF, and NNABA extend heartfelt congratulations to Sara Hill on this momentous achievement. Her confirmation is a testament to her dedication and expertise, and it helps address the undeniable need for Native voices on the federal bench.
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