Justice Maria Elena Cruz: A Historic Homecoming to Arizona’s Highest Court

June 03, 2025

At Silicon Valley Latino, we honor leaders who break barriers and uplift our communities. This week, we highlight Justice Maria Elena Cruz, who was officially sworn in as the first Afro-Latina justice on the Arizona Supreme Court .

Born in New York to a Puerto Rican father and Dominican mother, Cruz moved to Yuma, Arizona, at 14. Her journey from local educator to esteemed jurist reflects a deep commitment to justice and community. Her legal career spans roles as a prosecutor, defense attorney, and judge on the Cocopah Tribal Court, Yuma County Superior Court, and Arizona Court of Appeals .

Governor Katie Hobbs, who appointed Cruz, emphasized the significance of this milestone, stating that Cruz's presence on the court reaffirms that the judiciary belongs to all Arizonans .

Justice Cruz's investiture ceremony in Yuma was a heartfelt return to the community that shaped her. She expressed, "I am from Yuma, I am Yuma, this community made me," highlighting her dedication to bringing the voice and perspective of rural Arizona to the state's highest bench .

Join us in celebrating Justice Cruz's remarkable achievement and her unwavering commitment to representation and justice.

🎥 Watch the full story: Maria Elena Cruz Sworn In as Arizona Supreme Court's Newest Justice

Photo credit and original story: AZCentral