Born: 1964 (Phoenix, Arizona)
Biography:
Diane Joyce Humetewa, born on December 5, 1964, is a highly accomplished and trailblazing figure in the legal field. She has made significant contributions as a judge and attorney, breaking barriers and making history along the way. With a distinguished career that spans diverse roles and responsibilities, Humetewa has become a prominent advocate for justice and equality, particularly as a Native American woman.
A member of the Hopi tribe, Humetewa’s upbringing in Phoenix, Arizona, laid the foundation for her lifelong commitment to public service. After earning an associate degree from Phoenix College in 1985, she went on to graduate from Arizona State University in 1987 with a Bachelor of Science. During this period, Humetewa worked as a victim advocate for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Arizona federal judicial district, gaining firsthand experience of the challenges faced by individuals within the legal system.
Humetewa’s thirst for knowledge and her ambition to make a difference led her to pursue a Juris Doctor degree from Arizona State’s Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law, which she earned in 1993. With her legal education complete, she embarked on a remarkable journey that would see her serve in various key positions and pave the way for future generations.
From 1993 to 1996, Humetewa worked as deputy counsel for the U.S. Senate’s Committee on Indian Affairs, where she tirelessly advocated for the rights and concerns of Native American communities. Her experience in this role provided her with valuable insights into the intricate legal landscape surrounding tribal sovereignty and the unique challenges faced by indigenous peoples.
In 1996, Humetewa began her tenure as the Tribal Liaison in the office of the United States Attorney for Arizona. Throughout her time in this role, she skillfully navigated the complexities of the legal system, ensuring that the voices of tribal communities were heard and respected. Her dedication and commitment to justice earned her the position of Senior Litigation Counsel in the same office from 2001 to 2007.
Humetewa’s exceptional legal acumen and unwavering dedication caught the attention of influential figures, eventually leading to her nomination as the United States Attorney for the District of Arizona. In December 2007, she assumed the office, becoming the first Native American woman to hold this prominent position. Her investiture, held on February 6, 2008, at the Sandra Day O’Connor Courthouse in Phoenix, marked a significant milestone in her career and the Native American community’s collective progress.
During her tenure as the United States Attorney, Humetewa faced several challenges, but her commitment to justice remained unwavering. She successfully pursued criminal investigations and played a vital role in maintaining the integrity of the legal system. Her remarkable leadership and dedication to upholding the law have left an indelible mark on the history of the United States Attorney’s Office.
In 2014, Humetewa made history once again by becoming the first Native American woman and enrolled tribal member to serve as a federal judge. Her confirmation as a United States district judge for the District of Arizona was a significant milestone in her career, as well as a testament to her exceptional legal expertise and contributions to the legal field. This achievement not only reflects Humetewa’s personal accomplishments but also highlights the broader progress being made in diversifying the judiciary and ensuring equitable representation.
In addition to her judicial duties, Humetewa continues to share her wealth of knowledge as a Professor of Practice at Arizona State University’s Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law. Through her role as an educator, she inspires and empowers the next generation of legal professionals, emphasizing the importance of integrity, resilience, and cultural sensitivity in the pursuit of justice.
Humetewa’s numerous accolades and accomplishments are a testament to her enduring commitment to justice and her unwavering determination to make a difference. Her journey as a Native American woman in the legal field has broken down barriers and paved the way for future generations to follow in her footsteps. Diane Joyce Humetewa stands as a remarkable example of resilience, trailblazing, and integrity, leaving an indelible mark on women’s history and the pursuit of justice.