Who Judges the Judge? | Jordana Goldlist | TEDxDownsviewWomen

Former homeless teenager and high school dropout, now criminal lawyer Jordana Goldlist asks the question: who judges the Judge? Would we honour those in high positions of power if we knew their story? Would we continue to judge criminals for their mistakes if others were to judge us for ours? This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at www.ted.com/tedx

[@realminipowers]

What a life you are leading. Please say you'll write a book! The fact Jordana was self-aware enough to seek help and more importantly, help herself - at the age of 19....and to stick to it until she graduated from law school at 28.. And now this? What an amazing human. There are not many people with these sorts of morals and such a sense of duty. So much integrity. I loved this.

[@lloydbetances]

she's is pretty amazing

[@juanlsalazar]

I would read her book!!

[@spaghety9174]

so perfect.

[@sandraburthill]

One of the best TEDs I have ever seen on the legal system, and the need for more lawyers like Jordana.

[@itzpredicator3589]

"The life we live is the lessons we teach" how true.

[@jeffgoldygold]

yep loved that too.

[@franklinpgarner]

I loved that takeaway too.

[@josievannorman]

in stone!

[@jodikennedy8886]

love that too

[@angrybeagles4108]

I really like that quote too

[@candicetriley]

Thank you, reminds me of something very powerful once said “It is said that no one truly knows a nation until one has been inside its jails. A nation should not be judged by how it treats its highest citizens, but its lowest ones.” ― Nelson Mandela

[@jordanagoldlist4234]

Candice Riley I never heard that saying before but it’s great!

[@buddyfranks]

what a beautiful quote

[@heatherrausch1987]

it is so right

[@davidhanson8232]

And she is really good looking too, maybe wrong in these pc days but she is...

[@sheilalindsay]

This is why more women should be lawyers, they care.

[@therealrabby]

This made me cry a little, she's a living example that anyone can achieve greatness men or women.

[@joshauwidten]

True!!

[@carolinechery]

This is something we all need to think about, forgiveness.

[@maureenwatters321]

yes

[@merlemackenzie]

it is the only answer.

[@liamnneely]

and also perhaps, holding ourselves to the same standards we hold others. everything Jordana is saying... it's pulling at my heart strings. I've seen way too many good humans ousted because they did not fit some perfect ideal that those from privilege come from.

[@georgiarouse]

we really do.

[@iamarchiestewart]

easier said than done!

[@sorphealove3321]

There are not enough people in the legal profession that care enough, thank god for this woman.

[@jordanagoldlist4234]

sorphea love thank you so much

[@eric-tran]

I had goose bumps all through her talk. I can only hope that what she's talking about can be implemented... Doesn't matter if it's America, Canada or Australia... We need this.

[@kristianzlee]

Jordana, thank you! The majority have absolutely no idea how corrupt our justice system is and if they did, I doubt they would take so lightly to the way in which they pass on such ridiculous sentences for such petty crimes. I hope your message is heard loud and clear! You are an amazing human!

[@rainithacker]

I'm only just watching it now! Can't believe it took me this long.

[@sharoncooper4161]

this makes me sad and happy and stronger at the same time, thank you

[@jordanagoldlist4234]

Sharon Cooper Why does it make you sad?

[@asiscranda]

same for me, I love how the poor have such a great defender and sad that they need one.

[@sashapetrovic1678]

Being judged for the worst decision you ever made for a lifetime is a self fulfilling economic system. This talk is mind blowing. from inside the system.

[@charlesaddington]

i hope you shared it!

[@sherrieglewis]

Brilliant and inspiring, all of it. Absolutely incredible.

[@thereallyreallybigpicture]

Jordana, you are an absolute legend. Thank you for sharing and doing all that you do. You are a force!

[@leotencall]

Finally, someone doing the hard work to help educate so that we may END this terrible cycle of abuse. I really hope people listen to this lady, so many "criminals" are just victims of terrible circumstance. Brilliant talk.

[@deanskyler]

Listening to this life journey and where she's ended up.... It's more than just inspirational. I genuinely believe this story could help so many from all different sides. I can't imagine what it'd be like to live in her shoes but I do know that I respect and admire her, she clearly knows what she's talking about and obviously has the tools to make a systematic change that would actually help us move forward.

[@thereallyreallybigpicture]

Thanks for sending Dee. You know how much I love this sort of stuff! Definitely going up in the group.

[@sherrieglewis]

She is a hero!

[@shystrshystr]

In these times, this is magic, fighting back against the system, small victories will win the war. BRAVO!!!

[@taylorgiffon8255]

Finally we are reaching a place in time where the empathy and compassion can flow over into these matters.

[@WilliamSmithnotthatone]

When you discover what you don't want and preparing for what you do want seem to be much more clear. Thank you for sharing your story.

[@sarahyjames]

I thought real justice was gone, this woman is helping keep it.

[@theresarives]

Love her.

[@danabailey3887]

great link to send

[@craztinker]

I'm so moved by this talk, thank you Jordana!

[@elizabethbernard3135]

Could be one of the best Teds I have ever seen. A lawyer with a soul, a rarety in todays world.

[@jacksonradern]

Definitely is, you can see her passion though and it is so awesome

[@shannonhensley]

What a great talk about strength of character. Jordana you are the light in the game of law. Nothing like being on the inside to see the cracks of a title.

[@lauraladlow]

She's incredible!

[@johnsondubois816]

We all judge, a great talk I wish more people had a lawyer like you that really cares.

[@stellahellwig7496]

I agree, she is tough yet so caring

[@candicetriley]

she seems so sincere and tough, great combo

[@jordanagoldlist4234]

Thank you. I do care. I think I try to put myself in my clients shoes and fight for them the way I would want someone to fight for me

[@juneedgin7151]

what a lovely woman she is

[@stellahellwig7496]

@@jordanagoldlist4234 thank you for replying to me, I never thought you would read this. you are a good humane human

[@gailspordard]

If society cannot take an experience like Jordana has had here, and use it to fix a broken system so that instead of punishment we were looking at rehabilitation and support practices, we could genuinely tackle so many societal issues. This was incredibly thought provoking. Jordana is amazing.

[@muhammad-baksh]

I live for stories like this. Incredible to have been through what she has and to be able to use her lessons to help raise awareness and hope for a better system!

[@miriamhilley]

wow great talk, and yes I know of people I grew up with who took one bad turn and never got back on the rails. The system simply won't let them. She is good, the tatoos are awesome too

[@jordanagoldlist4234]

Miriam Hilley thank you 🙏🏻

[@vickycristena]

It's heartbreaking! So many brilliant minds wasted because of a corrupt system. Jordana, you are so incredible. An inspiration. Thank you.

[@regina-reda]

And that's why we should should be grateful for people like Jordana! Amazing.

[@lakylewashington]

Wow. How have I not heard of this woman? She is really what lawyers should aspire to be!

[@deanskyler]

She's what all human's should aspire towards

[@liza-zotova]

Such a good cause, I admit that if I hear someone has a criminal background I worry about my safety, but I will try more after this talk.

[@jessicamahmed]

I want to agree with you, but some of these people have done horrible things

[@liza-zotova]

@@jessicamahmed but what happens if no-one forgives them how do they ever fit back in?

[@jordanagoldlist4234]

Liza Zotova Some people deserve the opportunity to prove they can do different and sometimes they really will. Thanks for listen to that

[@gazioktay441]

@@jordanagoldlist4234 absolutely agree

[@liza-zotova]

@@jordanagoldlist4234 I know, you are right, but I still have fear (took me a while to admit it here)

[@gabrieldmateo]

These are my favourite kind of life journey's to hear about, such an incredible human Jordana is

[@mariaciacci]

We do what we can, some do what can't be done, this is one of those people.

[@tigersallaroundus]

I agree she is so awesome!

[@chasesevern7224]

This was such a good opening - straight to the point and a bit of a perspective check which I would think the audience at this talk probably needed.

[@guntherhofer]

Wow. This is such an important conversation. I'll be sharing this.

[@lauraladlow]

The way in which the justice system has operated in America is genuinely deplorable. At least finally open conversations are being had and a reform is on the rise. I must say, this woman's talk is so incredibly spot on and incredibly intelligent. sharing right away, as i'm sure there are some that need to see this.

[@bilbobiggens2104]

It's been a long time in the making, but at least it's happening!

[@cruznow]

Couldn't agree more.

[@1martinarose1]

I think this needs to go viral. So many celebrities atm fighting for clemency for so many inmates. This lady's talk is exactly why. Such an important topic.

[@elian-cruz]

One of the best TedTalks I've ever seen! Thank god for TedTalks! Justice for all!!!!

[@alice-jayne]

This was a very inspiring speech, thank you.

[@elaineward1925]

great people do great work

[@kylelramsay]

it is.

[@shameemhyder6597]

She is most badass lawyer in the world 😘 Amazing

[@jordanagoldlist4234]

Shameem hyder LOL - thank you 🙏🏻

[@fredbrodersen2734]

yep she is the one you want in your corner...

[@garymacdonald5370]

Ill agree, and I kind got a crush on her...

[@shameemhyder6597]

@Fred Brodersem - Be a Man and Respect women .

[@ulisseditaque]

haha she is for sure...

[@samanthakatzalay]

I hate having to watch an ad before a Ted, this was worth it.

[@buddyfranks]

this is so good on so many levels, people need to be free when they do their time, and free is not free if the bars of judgment stay there

[@jordanagoldlist4234]

Buddy Franks exactly!

[@heatherrausch1987]

how well said, both the talk and you too buddy!

[@buddyfranks]

@@heatherrausch1987 thanks

[@bernicebailes9394]

I didn't realize lawyers like this existed (except on tv shows) she is a good person.

[@jordanagoldlist4234]

Bernice Bailes thank you 🙏🏻

[@phyllishack]

Love this talk! Love this woman!

[@seemadyakirti6546]

Wonder how many of are sensitive enough to carry thought provoking issues raised in this wonderful video!! People need to be more flexible & gentle in approach towards conduct which includes all the aspects of life around you! This video resonates with the essence of life!! May we become human beings instead of pretending one!! God bless us!!

[@iamnotsia]

Couldn't agree more. It is very easy to find ourselves in circumstances we didn't expect.

[@bonniehavel]

Perfectly put Seema, I hope we thrive

[@thehammygnow]

You have an amazing human approach to your clients, which is so unusual!

[@rainithacker]

I've watched this a few times now and have shared it with a few friends who get it - Jordana, you are truly inspiring and the work that you are doing, I can't even imagine how hard it must be at times. You're a beautiful soul

[@arthurjanzen]

She is actually remarkable.

[@bobbywie]

This was worth sharing for sure!

[@galasenser]

The best come from the ground up, it's where we learn humanity!

[@granmabecker]

Experience counts for so much

[@lesliferguson7868]

Powerful perspective and one we should all consider seriously, to the benefit of society as a whole. Thank you for sharing your deeply personal story, opening my eyes and making me stop to think "Who Judges the Judge?".

[@jordanagoldlist4234]

Lesli Ferguson thank you 🙏🏻

[@northcosca]

how true...

[@girlontopoftheworld]

I find it society these days, it's usually those with a "respectable title" that are the most deplorable of our species. This woman, Jordana, is a perfect example of what it means to be human - to learn and grow through our journey and to hold ourselves accountable and once we are capable, to help those along the way that we can. Her story is such an inspiration. I've always admired Criminal Lawyer's, the circumstances so many of her clients would come from would be so heartbreaking. We are so quick to condemn criminals, I really hope that this woman's message goes far and wide

[@arthurjanzen]

Well ya shared with me Cece, and I'm here watching it, definitely will be passing on. So spot on.

[@caligsimpson]

That was absolutely beautiful, thank you for caring about the forgotten!

[@vindemour]

holy moly this talk is freaking amazing. i never thought i would witness the truths about our justice system to clearly laid out. what a phenomenal woman!

[@chefjimmy402]

I really enjoyed everything she had to say. Coming from such a similar upbringing I seen so many people get caught up in the system only to be stuck for good. The ones that rise above are a great example of never giving up on yourself or your goals just because society and the system wants you to. Amazing speech. 👏🏾

[@jordanagoldlist4234]

Navdeep Singh thank you for taking the time to listen and leave your comments. It’s taken me almost a year to even look at what people said but I’m really glad I did. Thanks for the support

[@jhonmaliq6404]

There is truth to this, but also truth to locking up murderers.

[@stanhopeishere]

I was always sure that defending criminals is the hardest job ever. I don't think I would be able to handle the stress. I love Jordana's perspective and experience, she'll help so many.

[@levshalazar]

Agreed. There is an openness to what it means to be human that most people could learn a lot from

[@paper-chasepublications9433]

Excellent points!!!

[@robertaherron]

Very good talk on a very important subject.

[@nicollekopping-pavars4534]

Powerful. Important. True. Thank you.

[@elaineclouston]

It takes a special heart to open to all.

[@jacksonradern]

Amazing. I never thought about the situation with criminals from a side that she tells about. Totally changed my perspective.

[@levshalazar]

Me either. This was great

[@jacksonradern]

@@levshalazar 😉

[@turkvestule1668]

Powerful woman, great heart, perfect person to defend.

[@jordanagoldlist4234]

Turk the Truck Thank you for that! I appreciate it

[@turkvestule1668]

@@jordanagoldlist4234 great talk Jordana, loved it thanks for replying to me.

[@erynsee1319]

What a great lawyer and person.

[@ricardom.arnold]

I've always found criminal defense so interesting, especially in today's societal conditioning, such lack of polar thinking. Watching Jordana here has reminded me why it's so important that we understand circumstance and use empathy instead of passing judgment.

[@carllokit]

Exposed to a jailhouse lifestyle can design a very interesting career. What a great story of many truths.

[@madisongrace9146]

I've seen a few interviews with this woman with some youtubers I really like. She's such a smart lady.

[@onurgalbas]

Goodness we need to be holding more of these people accountable.

[@bradcouper]

Only from suffering comes awakening.

[@belloarturo]

No data, and a lot of experience. Now that's the kind of depth and understanding you want working for you.

[@lanazaja]

I really felt this one, such an important talk.

[@jordanagoldlist4234]

Lana Zaja thank you

[@juneedgin7151]

What an amazing purpose to have, Bravo Jordana Bravo

[@jordanagoldlist4234]

Thank you 🙏🏻

[@helenimnotready]

And you Jordana and a credit to lawyers and to women, thank you.

[@jonaspotrykus]

Where life takes you is based on your decisions, the difference is the circumstances you're in at the time you make them and the journey unfolds as it should. This is a life well experienced.

[@reynaque]

She knows what she's talking about! She's been there, she's seen it. Jordana has all the experience in the world to help us navigate a better justice system for all.

[@enesyldzsr]

AMAZING!

[@budwebb]

One of the better TED talks.

[@gertvermisen2000]

Fabulous lady with an incredible story.

[@frasernicholson8509]

Amazing woman with an amazing story!

[@captain-awesome-aka-lmz]

Above all else, Justices must have integrity. Such is one reason why it is difficult for the Federal Liberal's to appoint Superior Court Judges and clear up the backlogged demand for such. A good judge is appointed as a result of his or her past actions. When a judge is appointed whimsically, justice is lost, as in the case of the appointment of Mr. Justice Michael Moldaver to the Supreme Court of Canada by the former Conservative Government. Hats off to Ms. Goldlist...she nailed it in her description of many lawyers.

[@melrobertsreal]

I believe the best people are those that have faced adversity. Take law, create a lawyer from someone who comes from a background of privilege. What would they know of struggle and pain, and more importantly - just how much circumstance and lack of opportunity can take hold. This woman is incredible and I really hope come this new year we are listening to people such as her more.

[@aslanaslanzade3684]

Wow. "We label teenagers as criminals, drug addicts as criminals, people with serious mental health issues. These are people who if we intervened earlier and gave them better opportunities"....Would also help end the cycle of abuse! This lady is AMAZING. I'll be sharing this!!

[@oguzkaanuremis]

Brave woman, good talk. Thank you Jordana.

[@freddyparmentier]

She is a unique and amazing person with will power. And I am really amazed how she can defend criminals? She may suppose that just a little percentage of people are changing.

[@austinjay9486]

Really Important talk, if you care about making the world better, care about the people that need our care.

[@alisonjanicewhite]

There is no law without real justice, and it is good to see someone who is trying to achieve it.

[@williambessel4970]

Beautiful talk beautiful soul beautiful woman!

[@lisa-lio]

What a wonderful woman, what a great lawyer.

[@jordanagoldlist4234]

Lisa Lio thanks Lisa

[@_jesus247]

I used to guess occasional injustice exist, but our justice system is akin to an economical structure designed to keep lost people stuck. 👌

[@janetsplace1953]

yes it is, it really is

[@stellahellwig7496]

the rich get justice the rest get jail

[@miriamhilley]

Exactly it is, once in it's a vortex and no way out

[@janetsplace1953]

@@stellahellwig7496 so true so true

[@stellahellwig7496]

@@janetsplace1953 yeah I know

[@juanwafford]

Finally a Lawyer who cares about justice.....

[@theoallan7474]

yes true, she might be the only one

[@rainithacker]

easily one of the best ted talks i've ever seen. especially considering these days ppl r finally having a hard look at the justice system.

[@juanlsalazar]

I was going to say this! She could most certainly help in the rebuilding that is going to be needed.

[@gracefairbank]

Wow there is kindness in law!

[@Checkersss]

Very good speech. Very true.

[@jordanagoldlist4234]

M thank you! 🙏🏻

[@raulascaso]

👌👌👌this is the way lawyers should be - CARING👌👌👌

[@brandawoodword]

She must be so empathetic, the pain she would have to endure fighting this good fight would be so hard.

[@nancygraskonski]

Yes I agree, I wonder though how I would truely feel working a violent criminal.

[@magnusseverson]

No one judges the judge. All the judges just be hanging out, laughing at the fact they're invincible.

[@sandralewandowski]

Very well said, forgiveness is divine

[@jordanagoldlist4234]

Sandra Lewandowski I agree. And giving people the chance to redeem themselves.

[@sandralewandowski]

@@jordanagoldlist4234 thank you for replying

[@gemmaatterks]

"Jail is a revolving door of lives lost", the system is a circle. Great talk on the investment of perpetual repetitive behaviour to sustain an industry.

[@julienewmans]

Such an important subject, good woman great lawyer.

[@amberfester9367]

You're amazing! I love and miss you girl ❤

[@luisbrezer]

Oh you've got to watch this for the good and honest view of the law and labels.

[@RealNewsMMA]

I was wake n baking and found my self with this exact question. Time to get down to business.

[@RealNewsMMA]

9:11 turns out I have been my own criminal justice system. Judging myself on my worst decisions and feeling as though others are doing the same toward me. It’s anxiety that comes from that partially, that has held me back for years from putting myself out there in multiple ways. Living with my parents turning 30 this summer. Gonna keep it short and stop here. All the best to whoever is reading this!

[@alanwoopchuck]

She is super lawyer - lol, well what I mean is if more lawyers were like here justice might actually be served

[@sharoncooper4161]

yes true

[@jasptasankert]

I wonder how many judges have seen this and are taking a long hard look at themselves. To hear Jordana speak of what she has been through and how she's come out the other side of it - those who sit on their righteous horses could learn a lot from her.

[@robertjnoble]

I wish we could force them all to watch it!