The newest Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor was honored with a reception on Wednesday at the White House. Sotomayor was sworn in as the 111th Supreme Court Justice last Saturday, becoming the first Hispanic justice and only the third woman to sit on the high court. President Obama welcomed her historic achievement.

President Obama: “Of course, we’re here not just to celebrate our extraordinary new Supreme Court justice and all those who’ve been a part of her journey to this day. We’re here, as well, to celebrate an extraordinary moment for our nation. And we celebrate the impact Justice Sotomayor has already had on people across America who have been inspired by her exceptional life story.”

Justice Sotomayor also spoke, citing her Bronx upbringing.

Justice Sonia Sotomayor: “Our Constitution has survived domestic and international tumult, including a civil war, two world wars and the catastrophe of September 11th. It draws together people of all races, faiths and backgrounds from all across this country who carry its words and values in our heart. It is this nation’s faith in a more perfect union that allows a Puerto Rican girl from the Bronx to stand here now.”