Tina Kotek, Oregon’s governor, announced the selection of Aruna Masih for the Oregon Supreme Court. Masih, an experienced attorney in employment, worker, and civil rights matters, holds the distinction of becoming the state’s first Punjabi, Indian American, and South Asian Supreme Court Justice.
Governor Kotek praised Masih’s extensive commitment to public service and her endeavors in promoting equity and diversity within the legal sphere. As a partner at Bennett Hartman LLP, Masih’s legal journey spans over 25 years and encompasses employment, labor, appellate, professional licensure, contract, and constitutional law.
Masih’s legal proficiency extends to nuanced areas like Public Employees Retirement System (PERS) and pension case law. She has led Oregon’s advisory committee for diversity and inclusion within the state bar, and chaired the labor and employment section. She’s also actively involved in the South Asian Bar Association of Oregon Association and the Oregon Women Lawyers Foundation.
A Creighton University School of Law graduate, Masih is determined to bring her distinct viewpoint to the Oregon Supreme Court. She aims to uphold fairness, thoughtful judgment, and equal access under the law.
Governor Kotek expressed her confidence in Masih’s service, highlighting her dedicated history as a civil rights attorney and community leader. Masih’s appointment ushers in a new chapter for the Oregon Supreme Court and represents an important milestone in terms of cultural representation and legal expertise.
