In support of #BlackHERstory Month, we’ll be posting about one current black feminist leader or organization each weekday in February. Tune in daily to learn more about black women’s history, feminism, and the reproductive justice movement!
Loretta Lynch is the current United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York. Ms. Lynch was appointed to her position in 2010 by President Barack Obama, but previously held the position from 1999-2001. Ms. Lynch oversees federal prosecutions in Brooklyn, Queens, Staten Island, and Long Island.
Following the death of Eric Garner, an unarmed black man who died from a heart attack while in a prohibited chokehold by a New York City police officer, Ms. Lynch met with his family to discuss possible prosecution of the officer believed to be responsible. Her office has been involved in the highly publicized prosecutions of Congressman Michael Grimm, politicians Pedro Espada Jr. and William Boyland, and CitiGroup.
President Obama nominated Ms. Lynch for Attorney General this past November and if confirmed she will be the first black woman to serve as U.S. Attorney General.
