Ruth Bader Ginsburg’s will contained a surprising and heartfelt gesture that highlighted the deep bond between the late Supreme Court Justice and her long-time housekeeper, Elizabeth Salas.
While the majority of Ginsburg’s estate was allocated to her children, Jane and James Ginsburg, she also set aside $40,000 specifically for Salas, who had worked for her for 22 years. This thoughtful gesture reflected Ginsburg’s appreciation for Salas’s loyalty and friendship over the years.
Salas, who is a Bolivian immigrant, had a close personal connection with Ginsburg. The two shared a unique bond, and Salas was deeply touched by the gesture.
In a recent interview, Salas recalled Ginsburg’s final wish for her, saying, “The last thing she told me is that she did not want me to work anymore.” Salas added that Ginsburg always defended and protected her, offering more than just employment but also friendship and support.
When Ginsburg passed away on September 18, 2020, at the age of 87 from complications related to pancreatic cancer, the news of her will’s provisions came as a poignant reminder of her compassionate nature.
Appointed to the U.S. Supreme Court in 1993 by President Bill Clinton, Ginsburg served with dedication throughout her life, even as she faced multiple battles with cancer.
Salas’s loyalty was not only recognized in the will but also during a historic moment when she was seated next to President Joe Biden at Ginsburg’s lying-in-state at the U.S. Capitol—an honor marking a historic first for a woman.
In addition to her personal connection with Salas, Ginsburg’s legacy is also tied to her enduring support of those around her. Amanda L. Tyler, a law professor at UC Berkeley and a former mentee of Ginsburg, recalled how the late justice always put others before herself.
Tyler shared that Ginsburg was an unwavering source of support, helping her land jobs and offering guidance during tough times. “She was something of a North Star in my life,” Tyler said. “I think a lot of her law clerks would say that.”
Tyler also reflected on a conversation she had with Ginsburg near the end of her life. Ginsburg, ever concerned for others, asked how Tyler’s children were doing amid the pandemic, showing particular concern for how the situation was affecting children across the country. Tyler recalled how Ginsburg expressed worry for the future, demonstrating her selflessness even in her final days.
Justice Ginsburg’s legacy extends beyond her monumental contributions to law and justice. Her actions, both in her professional and personal life, have left an indelible mark on those who were fortunate enough to know her.