SJR17 Summary

• Commends Judge Carole Smitherman on her retirement from the Circuit Court Civil Division of Jefferson County at the end of her term in January 2025

• Recognizes her service on the Tenth Judicial Circuit Court since 2012 and her historic achievements as the first woman of color to serve in multiple judicial and political positions in Alabama

• Highlights her career accomplishments including being the first female Deputy District Attorney in Jefferson County, first woman of color appointed as Circuit Court Judge in Alabama, and Birmingham's first female mayor (sworn in 2009 as the 31st Mayor)

• Notes her family legacy, including her marriage to Rodger Smitherman, five children, six grandchildren, and her daughter Crystal's service as Birmingham City Councilor and President Pro Tempore

• Passed by the Senate on February 12, 2025 and by the House on February 18, 2025