Dinkins Sworn In On State Court of Appeals

Former Davidson County Chancellor Richard Dinkins was sworn in today as the first African American on the Tennessee Court of Appeals.

Last year, Dinkins had been considered for the state Supreme Court after that panel’s only African-American retired. He withdrew from that process, citing personal reasons.

But when the nominating committee came calling again, Dinkins agreed to be considered for the appeals court.

Dinkins says clearly the process over the past year has resulted in much comment about minorities on the courts. He says, “Sometimes people feel that when you add in race or gender that takes away from the quality aspect…”

“I assure that anybody that comes through that selection mechanism, is qualified (laughter) … refried (laughter) …and bona fide (laughter).”

Dinkins’ appointment to the appeals bench still leaves an all-white state Supreme Court. State Representative G.A. Hardaway of Memphis wants to change that with a new nominating process. He’s introduced a bill to increase the number of minorities on the actual nominating committee.

And if the evidence that’s been presented so far is true to fact, it’s going to take that in order to have consistent, quality minority candidates offered up for these positions.”

Hardaway says he’s working with former judges and legal groups for women and minorities to craft the bill.