Tennessee Court of Appeals Judge Richard Jenkins and Belmont University College of Law graduate Juliana Lamar are the pride and joy of the volunteer state this morning, as a video of Lamar's swearing in has gone viral. Judge Jenkins can be seen holding the lawyer's adorable 1-year-old baby as he administers her oath.
"...right before we began, Judge said he wanted Beckham to take part in the moment," Lamar told BuzzFeed News. "And I am so glad he did, because to have my son take part in one of the greatest moments of my life was truly a blessing."
It demands to be said that Lamar is a complete badass. She delivered baby Beckham by C-Section and due to Belmont's strict attendance policy, went back to class just one week later. Meanwhile, her husband Javon is serving in the U.S. Army.
"The pressure I felt was horrible, and I hope it has led my law school to rethink its policies for future mothers," Lamar said. "I understand having a child during law school is often a choice, however, as young female professionals there is not a perfect time for us to have children."
Lamar also told Buzzfeed News that Judge Dinkins has been "a guiding light" during her legal career.
"When I was nine months pregnant, the day before I found out I needed to be induced, Judge Dinkins spoke on the importance of voting at an event I hosted as the President of my school’s Black Law Students’ Association. During this event Judge Dinkins reminded me of how proud he was of me and that he knew I would do great things, even with a baby in tow."
Let this story be your inspiration today! Women like Juliana are proof that you can do anything you set your mind to, while Judge Dinkins is an excellent example of what it looks like to support and empower young mothers. Well done, to all!