The Oregon Muslim Bar Association (OMBA) was honored to attend Hon’ble Judge Rima Ghandour’s investiture that took place at the Multnomah County Courthouse in Portland, Oregon. It was a great celebration of the historic moment of Rima becoming the first Arab Muslim American woman appointed as a judge in Oregon. There was laughter, tears of joy, and happiness wherever one could see. The celebration was attended by Governor Tina Kotek, judges including Hon’ble Judge Mustafa Kasubhai (he/him), family, friends, colleagues, and people from the community who truly wanted to be a part of this celebration and show their support for Rima.

Hon’ble Judge Rima Ghandour was a private practitioner before becoming a judge. She was involved in various types of community work and received multiple awards for her community service. She has been an active member of different bar associations and also, co-founded the Oregon Muslim Bar Association (OMBA) with other legal practitioners and judges.

Judge Ghandour has been a pioneer in setting an example for people with diverse backgrounds that there is a place for all in the Oregon legal community. Showing compassion, being kind, working hard yet with humility, persevering to overcome obstacles, and being dedicated and committed to serving people are some of her greatest strengths. She brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the legal community and her own community. She is a true inspiration for all and an asset to the Oregon judiciary.

Many congratulations on this well-deserved honor, and may her trailblazing journey foster a greater sense of equity and opportunity for all.