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# Justice Maria Elena Cruz: A Historic Homecoming to Arizona’s Highest Court
- URL: https://www.svlatino.com/blogs/business/justice-maria-elena-cruz-a-historic-homecoming-to-arizona-s-highest-court/
- Published: 2025-06-03T16:59:00.000Z
- Updated: 2026-09-11T19:16:46.000Z
- Description: This week, we highlight Justice Maria Elena Cruz, who was officially sworn in as the first Afro-Latina justice on the Arizona Supreme Court .
- Author: Sergio Domeyko
- Tags: Business

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](https://www.azfamily.com/video/2025/05/31/maria-elena-cruz-sworn-arizona-supreme-courts-newest-justice/)

Photo credit and original story: [AZCentral ](https://www.azfamily.com/video/2025/05/31/maria-elena-cruz-sworn-arizona-supreme-courts-newest-justice/)