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Arkansas Delegation Introduces Legislation to Honor Arkansas Judge

July 8, 2015

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators John Boozman and Tom Cotton along with Congressmen Rick Crawford, French Hill, Steve Womack and Bruce Westerman introduced legislation today to rename the Helena-West Helena Federal building in honor of Judge Jacob Trieber.

"Judge Trieber paved the way for diversity on the federal bench as the first Jewish federal judge. His work on the bench helped fight injustice and laid the foundation for equality with a lasting civic legacy that continues to impact our country. I'm proud to honor Judge Trieber for his contributions to Arkansas and the United States," Boozman said.

"Judge Trieber was a dedicated public servant and did a great deal for our state. His significant impact civil rights endures today and this building will help honor his important legacy," Cotton said.

"Jacob Trieber's tenure as a federal judge was marked by consistent hard work and national prominence as a jurist and constitutional scholar. Given his leadership in the community of Helena and beyond, it is deeply fitting for his name to be enshrined over the court he served with honor and distinction," Crawford said.

"I am proud that our delegation has chosen this fitting tribute to honor such a distinguished Arkansan. As the first Jewish Federal Judge, Jacob Trieber's story is that of an American pioneer, and his time on the court and the decisions he made remain an important part of Arkansas's past, present, and future," Hill said.

"Judge Trieber promoted tolerance, understanding, and communication throughout his life of accomplishment – both from the bench and through his many civic endeavors. It is fitting that he be commemorated in this way," Womack said.

"Judge Trieber was a trailblazer. His work as this nation's first Jewish federal judge included fighting for equal justice for everyone. His legacy lives on today and it is an honor to co-sponsor legislation honoring the judge's memory and his influence on this nation,"Westerman said.

Judge Jacob Trieber served as the first Jewish federal judge. He was appointed by President William McKinley and served from 1900-1927 as the federal judge for the U.S. Circuit Court for the Eastern District of Arkansas. As a federal judge, he sought equal justice for all people. Judge Trieber had astounding foresight, and many rulings he made that were of significant importance regarding civil rights and wildlife conservation still affect us today. His commitment to the community also included time as an elected official on the Helena City Council and the Phillips County treasurer. Judge Trieber played an influential role in saving the Old State House and establishing the Arkansas State Tuberculosis Sanatorium.

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