The National Native American Bar Association (“NNABA”) applauds the recent appointment of Judge Keala Ede to the Minnesota Court of Appeals. Judge Ede has a deep commitment to public service and will bring a valuable and important perspective to the bench. This appointment is an historic moment for Minnesota, as Judge Ede is the first ever Native Hawaiian appointed to the Minnesota Court of Appeals.
A diverse court system representative of all Americans, including Native Americans and Indigenous people, is critical to the fair and impartial administration of justice and to sustain the confidence of the people in the fairness and integrity of the justice system. Both state and federal courts issue rulings that effect the daily lives of American Indians, Alaska Natives and Native Hawaiians and having justices that have deep understanding of the indigenous perspectives ensure those experiences are understood by our justice system.
“Diverse perspectives in our state and federal courts not only best serves the public, but ensures voices and experiences not traditionally represented in the courtroom can help shape our legal system. From our NNABA community, we extend aloha, hoʻomaikaʻi, and mahalo to Judge Ede for his service. We also extend a warm mahalo nunui to Governor Walz for his commitment to judical diversity.” Makalika Nāholowaʻa, NNABA President, and lifetime member of the Native Hawaiian Bar Association.
“Under Governor Tim Walz’s leadership, the State of Minnesota has shown an incredible dedication to the appointment and advancement of Native Americans and Indigenous people in the state judiciary. NNABA congratulates Judge Ede and thanks Governor Walz for continuing to diversify the bench.” Philip Brodeen, Immediate Past NNABA President, and former Minnesota American Indian Bar Association President.
