Sharon Borne-Clarke officially inducted as supreme court justice of Kings County

January 9, 2024 Solwazi Olusola

Justice Sharon Bourne-Clarke taking the oath of office, administered by Hon. Wavny Toussaint, during her induction ceremony into the New York Supreme Court.
Photos: Solwazi Afi Olusola courtesy of Justice Borne-Clarke

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In a celebratory gathering after the formalities, Justice Bourne-Clarke is seen amidst a close-knit circle of family, friends and longtime supporters.

On Friday evening, a gathering of family, community members, and colleagues convened to celebrate the induction of Justice Sharon Bourne-Clarke into the Supreme Court of the State of New York.

The ceremony, filled with anticipation and joy, featured speeches by Justice Knipel, the administrative judge of Kings County Supreme Court Civil Matters; Hon. Wavny Toussaint, presiding justice of the Appellate Term 2nd, 9th and 11th Judicial Districts; and Hon. Mercedes Narcisse. Adding a personal touch, her niece Meagan King performed Maya Angelou’s “Still I Rise,” echoing Bourne-Clarke’s resilience and commitment to her community.

A proud moment for Justice Bourne-Clarke, pictured here with the district leaders who played a pivotal role in her nomination.

Justice Bourne-Clarke’s path to this esteemed position began long before her 2014 appointment as a Civil Court judge. From her junior high years, she embodied the principle of being her brother’s keeper, a commitment recognized by the District Attorney’s Office for her contributions within her school and community.

Chesterfield and Eileen Bourne, the proud parents of Justice Bourne-Clarke, captured in a heartwarming moment at the ceremony.

Throughout three decades, Bourne-Clarke has been a pillar of civic engagement and public service. She has mentored students and delivered speeches at renowned institutions, including Harvard Kennedy School and Brooklyn College High School Academy. Her efforts extend to organizing court visits and Know Your Rights Programs for students and community members.

Justice Bourne-Clarke stands united with fellow members of Brooklyn's judiciary at the induction ceremony. — Justice Bourne-Clarke stands united with fellow members of Brooklyn’s judiciary at the induction ceremony.

Inspired by a Supreme Court decision and Justice Thurgood Marshall at age 13, Bourne-Clarke has always strived to be a voice for the voiceless, advocating for all, regardless of their background. In her role as a judge, she has impacted lives in Civil, Criminal and Family courts, focusing on delivering fair and impartial justice, especially to marginalized communities. Her work has offered second chances to young offenders and promoted collaborative solutions for families.

Post-ceremony, Justice Sharon Bourne-Clarke is surrounded by a jubilant group of family, friends, and supporters.

As a member of the Black community, Bourne-Clarke understands the unique challenges faced by minorities, especially young people. She is committed to reducing societal trauma and empowering individuals to overcome barriers.

Justice Sharon Bourne-Clarke, once a dedicated community volunteer, now serves as the elected Justice of the Kings County Supreme Court. She carries with her the legacy of her ancestors and a mantra of resilience and hope:

“I rise

I rise

I rise!”