Wisdom from the Past, Hope for the Future

My daughters often share stories that resonate deeply and shape my perspective of the world. In everyday moments, they offer insights that surpass any wisdom I could hope to impart to them, despite being nearly 25 years into my legal career.

My younger daughter once did a research project for her high school English class about the history of Japanese Americans in California. Through her exploration, she shed light on the resilience and strength of Japanese Americans, particularly women, whose contributions to our country and the world have too often been overlooked or erased. Despite challenges finding primary sources and voices that went against the tide of Asian American invisibility, my daughter ultimately unearthed tales of perseverance amid adversity, revealing a heritage marked by triumph over injustice.

I found my daughter’s dedication to telling the stories of everyday heroes inspiring. And it’s caused me to reflect on two influential figures who shaped my legal career: Judge Susan Oki Mollway and the late Francis (Frank) Sogi.

Judge Mollway, whom I clerked for fresh out of law school, is a testament to resilience and achievement. As the first Asian-American woman to serve as an Article III federal judge, she blazed a trail in the legal profession, overcoming barriers with grace and determination. This journey, captured in her book “The First Fifteen: How Asian American Women Became Federal Judges,” inspires countless others to pursue their aspirations despite obstacles. With humility and unwavering commitment to justice, Judge Mollway’s legacy continues to resonate, leaving an indelible mark on the legal community and beyond. Under her mentorship, I not only honed my legal skills but also imbibed invaluable lessons in integrity and empathy. I need to get back to Hawaii soon for a visit.

Frank Sogi, who gave me my first job in Big Law, also has a life story of resilience and dedication. Born in America to Japanese immigrants in 1923, he navigated the landscape of World War II, facing discrimination and adversity with fortitude. Despite initially being classified by the U.S., along with other American soldiers of Japanese ancestry, as an “enemy alien,” Sogi’s commitment to service led him to volunteer for the U.S. Army, where he used his fluency in Japanese to serve his country. After the war, he pursued higher education and embarked on a legal career, ultimately becoming a distinguished attorney and mentor. I remember Frank as a thoughtful and brilliant partner, always looking for ways to help and support the next generation. I apply his wisdom often in my role as a partner at Kirkland.

When I think about Judge Mollway and Frank Sogi, I’m reminded of the enduring spirit of resilience and the power of being an example for future generations. In my role at Kirkland, I feel privileged to mentor younger attorneys and pass on the lessons that shaped me as a person and lawyer. I’m extremely grateful for those who came before me, as well as the next generation — like my daughters — who will continue the good work.