Historic First for St. Johns County
Judge Joan Anthony has become the first Black woman to preside over Family Court in St. Johns County. She reached this milestone alongside Judge Alicia Washington, who became the first Black judge in Putnam County. Their joint investiture took place on February 4, 2022, at Bethune-Cookman University in Daytona Beach.
Although both judges had already been serving for more than a year, the pandemic delayed their official ceremony. Family, friends, and legal leaders gathered to celebrate their historic achievement. Bethune-Cookman Interim President Hiram Powell called it “a historical moment indeed” as the two women donned their robes and received gavels, Bibles, and nameplates.
Breaking Barriers in the Seventh Judicial Circuit
The Seventh Judicial Circuit covers St. Johns, Volusia, Flagler, and Putnam counties. While Black women have served as county judges before, Anthony and Washington are the first on the circuit bench. Out of 27 circuit judges and 17 county judges in the circuit, they remain the only Black judges.
University of Miami law professor Charlton Copeland explained why this matters. “A judiciary that reflects the diversity of the wider community is one component of perceptual fairness,” he said. Their presence signals change for the court system and a wider pool for future leadership in higher courts.
Joan Anthony’s Journey of Resilience
Anthony, born in Jamaica, came to the United States in 1971. Her father cut sugar cane in Florida to support the family, while her mother kept their home strong. Anthony studied at Bethune-Cookman University, where she switched her major to criminal justice after reading Mary McLeod Bethune’s words: “Enter to learn, depart to serve.”
Her road to becoming a judge was not easy. She failed the Florida Bar exam once by just one point. Later, she faced suspension after pleading guilty to federal tax evasion in 1999. However, she fought for reinstatement, and with community support, returned to practice law in 2003. She went on to build her career and eventually won election to the bench.
Alicia Washington’s Path of Determination
Judge Alicia Washington’s story also shows perseverance. She applied for judicial appointment ten times and was denied each time. Instead of giving up, she ran for election and won. She credited her success to faith and family.
Washington spoke about her father, who served in Vietnam, and her mother, who immigrated from Korea and built a business from scratch. Washington said, “A dream deferred is not a dream denied. Never give up even when everything seems against you.”
Her words inspired those present, reminding them that persistence and courage open doors for new generations.
Voices of Support and Encouragement
Several leaders honored the two judges. Retired Florida Supreme Court Justice Peggy Quince urged them to uphold fairness and equal justice. Circuit Judge Raul Zambrano reminded them they now belong to both a judicial family and a larger community.
Retired Judge Hubert Grimes, who had managed Anthony’s campaign, shared advice from scripture: “Do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with your God.” His words reflected the responsibility that comes with the bench.
A Legacy for the Future
Anthony closed her speech with a daily affirmation: “Today presents unlimited potential and possibilities to accomplish, to achieve, to excel and to make life better for others.” Washington echoed the same hope, encouraging those with deferred dreams to hold on.
Their journey shows how determination, resilience, and faith can transform barriers into milestones. Their story is now part of St. Johns County’s history and a source of inspiration for future generations.
