Guzman, Lawmakers Honored

Texas Access to Justice Foundation honors senators, representatives and former justice at Oct. 25 luncheon TEXAS ACCESS TO JUSTICE HONOREES: From left to right: Justice Evan A. Young, Justice Jeff Boyd, Justice Brett Busby, Justice John Phillip Devine, Justice Debra Lehrmann, State Senator Joan Huffman, Chief Justice Nathan L. Hecht, State Senator Judith Zaffrini, Former Supreme Court Justice Eva GUzman, Justice Jimmy Blacklock, Justice Jane Bland, Justice Evan A. Young and Justice Jeff Boyd.                                                                                                       [Courtesy Photo.]
The Texas Access to Justice Foundation and Commission hosted a luncheon on Oct. 25 in Austin with the Supreme Court of Texas to address access to justice for low-income Texans. The organization honored Texas Sen. Judith Zaffirini, Texas Sen. Joan Huffman, and State Rep. Mary González with the "Legislative Hero Award" for their contributions to improving access to justice in Texas. Former Supreme Court Justice and foundation liaison Eva Guzman was also awarded the Kleinman Award for her leadership and contributions to public service in communities throughout Texas. Awards were presented by Chief Justice Nathan L. Hecht.

"The individuals we recognized today have brought a wealth of knowledge in civic service and leadership to the important mission of helping shape the future of Texas," said Deborah Hankinson, chair of the board of directors of TAJF. "These Texas leaders have continuously embodied excellence, wisdom and integrity, and we are honored to recognize them for helping ensure our justice system is available to all."

Former Supreme Court Justice Guzman made history by becoming the first Latina elected to the Supreme Court of Texas and the first to be elected to statewide office in Texas. Twice over, Guzman made history when receiving the most votes ever in a Texas Republican Party primary.

Texas Access to Justice Foundation honors senators, representatives and former justice at Oct. 25 luncheon KLEINMAN AWARD HONOREE: Kleinman Award honoree, Former Supreme Court Justice Eva Guzman.                          [Courtesy Photo.]
Annually, former Justice Guzman met with the Texas congressional delegation and was an advocate for additional funding for disadvantaged Texans. She has worked on the Children's Commission to ensure fair treatment for children in the Texas foster care system and was the founder of the Texas Judicial Commission on Mental Health. She served as the face of TAJF's Legal Aid for Sexual Assault Survivors program, funded by the Texas Legislature, and successfully worked to generate increased funding for Texas veterans. As a prior liaison for TAJF, former Justice Guzman authored several op-ed pieces, participated in media interviews and videos, and addressed constituents at numerous meetings and events about the legal needs of low-income Texans.

"I am honored to receive the prestigious Kleinman award for helping ensure access to justice for disadvantaged Texans," Guzman said. "Part of my life's work—and hopefully my legacy—is to help lead Texas proudly into the future, by mentoring and supporting those in need. I remain dedicated to advancing the rule of law for all Texans, not just those that have the means to afford it."

Sen. Zaffirini represents the 21st Senatorial District. She is the first Hispanic woman elected to the Texas Senate, the second highest-ranking senator, and the highest-ranking woman and Hispanic senator. She is now a current member of the Judicial Council and the Texas Access to Justice Commission.