In a significant event at the Minnesota History Center, Natalie Hudson and Karl Procaccini were formally sworn in as Chief Justice and Associate Justice of Minnesota’s Supreme Court, respectively. The ceremony marked historic milestones with Hudson becoming the first person of color and Black woman to hold the position of Chief Justice, while Procaccini is noted as the first Muslim Associate Justice.
The investiture featured a land acknowledgment by Associate Justice Anne McKeig, performances by The Sounds of Blackness, and speeches from Gov. Tim Walz and Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan.
Rev. Willie Hudson held the Bible as Judge Wilhelmina Wright administered the oath to Chief Justice Hudson, who was robed by her grandchildren Gabriel and Naomi Hudson. In her address, she reflected on the significance of her appointment: “I am humbled and honored to be standing here today...as the first person of color—the first Black woman—to serve as Minnesota’s Chief Justice.”
Hudson emphasized diversity in the judiciary: “Today’s ceremony is a testament to Minnesota's progress...a celebration of all those who have fought tirelessly against the barriers of race, gender, and prejudice.”
Associate Justice Procaccini took his oath with his wife Dr. Nayla Hamdi holding religious texts, while his niece Priya Procaccini robed him. He expressed gratitude for his role: “I am grateful to my new colleagues for their warm welcome...humbled by the opportunity to serve Minnesotans.”
Governor Walz praised both justices: “Chief Justice Natalie Hudson is one of our state’s most experienced jurists,” adding that she will promote fairness in justice. On Procaccini, he stated: “Justice Procaccini...understands that our laws are a force for good.”
Lt. Gov. Flanagan highlighted Hudson's groundbreaking leadership: “Chief Justice Natalie Hudson has made history as the first Black woman to lead Minnesota’s judiciary.” She also commended Procaccini's impact during the pandemic: “Justice Karl Procaccini’s steady hand...saved thousands of Minnesotans’ lives.”
Both officials expressed confidence in the justices' abilities to uphold justice and integrity within Minnesota’s legal system.