This is a pioneer memoir about a neglected slice of Hawai`i judicial history. In this unique, insightful, and compelling book, written by the first African American woman judge in the Hawaiian Islands, Simms candidly reveals the cultural and political events and forces on the Mainland, and the diversity, crime, and social problems in the Islands that shaped her courage and commitment to justice, in spite of and because of her history: growing up black in Chicago. She credits her family, community, social networks, church, the dynamic forces of post WWII African American migrations to Chicago, and the Civil Rights Movement for her choice and dedication to a career in law. Simms uses words and storytelling to skillfully integrate her personal background with her subsequent 30 plus years in Hawai`i where she successfully served as an attorney, a politically appointed judge, and a witness (observer) of many fascinating experiences. In this book, Simms sensitively recounts memorable criminal cases involving women, drugs, island families and their support for their loved ones, simultaneously revealing the heart and responsibility of a judge to remain objective and fair in face of complex situations and island politics.
– Kathryn Waddell Takara, PhD, Professor (ret), University of Hawai`i at Manoa
Sandra Sims shares her struggles, aspirations and accomplishments that are personal and at the same time of general interest. Readers will not only enjoy stories written by the first African American female judge appointed to the Hawai’i Courts, but will gain insights about themselves, law, Hawai’i, African Americans, women and families. This is an important addition to the literature on diversity and justice.
– Amy Agbayani, former member of the Hawai’i Judicial Selection Commission and former member of the Hawai’i Civil Rights Commission
I have a lot of love and admiration for my big sister. She never backed down from a fight. Her chosen weapons were her words and the truths they represent. This book gives the rest of the world glimpse of the woman that we already know and love; “big sister is down for the cause” and will always speak loudly for people in need of justice. She is fearless because her trust is in God who has given us love, wisdom, strength, and peace of mind.
– David Nuckolls, Coach and Community Volunteer
By skillfully weaving her personal story with cases she’s had to rule on in the courtroom, Sandra Simms provides a compelling view of what goes on in the heart of a judge, even as she upholds her responsibility to be fair and impartial. This slim volume is filled with heartfelt and hard-earned wisdom.
– Jana Wolff, Owner, Vista Communications, Inc.
I enjoyed the recollections and insight. I look forward to the next edition. The book was insightful, compassionate, and necessary.
– Miles S. Breiner, Esq.