“I would strongly urge the women in the audience to consider a career in the judiciary. Judging seems to be tailor-made for women. Judging is physically light work—generally no heavy lifting is required. Judges are often heard to complain that they are overworked and underpaid, characteristics typically ascribed to ‘women’s work.’ And should a judge decide to bear a child, her robe is a perfect maternity dress.”
“You can combine family and careers, although you will never hear a male lawyer being asked how he manages to combine marriage with a career.”
“Historically, women have been outsiders to the political system. Now that we have the vote and the promise of equal opportunity, we must make a special effort to help other outsiders—the old, the poor, the differently-abled, members of racial, ethnic, religious, and cultural minorities. We should try to ensure that in our judicial system, and in all facets of our government, everyone is treated with respect and dignity.” -Justice Shirley S. Abrahamson
“The hand that rocks the cradle ought to rock the boat. As we move to maturity, we redefine the roles for ourselves and redefine those of our husband, father, mother and children.” – Justice Shirley S. Abrahamson
“Equality of men and women means eliminating sex stereotypes and looking at the individual. Just as it is unacceptable for the law to force all women into the mold of homemaker, it is similarly unacceptable to treat all women upon divorce as per se self-sufficient bread winners in an open, full employment job market.” – Justice Shirley S. Abrahamson
“Women should be free to do what they want. For 15 years I had to apologize because I was working. Now housewives apologize to me because they’re not. It’s topsy turvy.”
“Today, the best man for the job may be a woman. We may finally be on the verge of understanding that sexism is a social disease that can be eradicated. It’s not simple, but a solution must be found.”
“I may be the first woman justice, but I’m clearly not the last.” – Attorney Shirley S. Abrahamson
“A woman’s place is in the house—the State house, the courthouse, even the White House.”