Senate Journal: Page 53: Wednesday, January 12, 2000

  Nearly thirty years later, with funds you provided, the Iowa Supreme Court
  established the Equality in the Courts Task Force.  We established the task
  force to
  scrutinize the court system for any trace of bias based upon race or sex.
  After a
  thorough investigation, the task force reported that while it found no
  evidence of overt
  bias, there was the perception of bias among women and minorities.

  More recently, a survey commissioned by the American Bar Association
  revealed
  that a substantial number of people in this country believe that the justice
  system does
  not treat everyone equally.  Many of the survey respondents believe that our
  justice
  system treats the rich better than the poor, certain racial or ethnic groups
  better than
  others, and men better than women.

  Some may argue that perception of bias is not bias in fact.  This may be
  true, but
  we cannot ignore perception.  Citizens respect the court system, so long as
  they
  perceive that the courts are places where disputes are fairly and
  impartially decided.
  Thus, it is imperative that in the future we periodically scrutinize court
  practices,
  procedures, and personnel to root out any hint of bias.

  Ultimately, the vitality of our judicial system depends upon the confidence
  of the
  people.  To earn their confidence, whether in the second millennium or the
  seventh, we
  must plan, we must be committed, and we must be vigilant about equal
  justice.

  So what is the state of the judiciary?

  It is much like our Capitol.  Its design is timeless, its foundation is
  solid, and its
  structure is resilient.  It is in constant need of attention and certain
  areas need special
  attention now.  But with proper care, it will serve the people well for
  centuries to come.

  President Kramer requested that the joint convention and guests
  join her in thanking Chief Justice McGiverin for his service to the
  State of Iowa.

  The joint convention and guests rose and expressed their
  appreciation.

  Chief Justice McGiverin was escorted from the House Chamber by
  the committee previously appointed.

  Governor Vilsack was escorted from the House Chamber by the
  committee previously appointed.

  Representative Jacobs moved that the joint convention be
  dissolved, which motion prevailed by a voice vote.

  The Senate returned to the Senate Chamber.

© 2000 Cornell College and League of Women Voters of Iowa

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