Mark Wilson/Getty ImagesBy MEREDITH DELISO, ABC News
(WASHINGTON) — The late Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg will be the first woman to lie in state at the U.S. Capitol on Friday.
The honor, which comes a week after her death at the age of 87 due to complications of metastatic pancreas cancer, pays tribute to the country’s most distinguished citizens.
Since 1852, over 30 men have lain in state, including 12 former presidents, as well as other statesmen and military leaders, per historical records. The last person to have lain in state was Georgia congressman and civil rights activist John Lewis, who died in July.
Civil rights icon Rosa Parks was “lain in honor” at the Capitol in 2005, but Ginsburg will be the first woman ever to lie in state.
“Justice Ginsburg embodied justice, brilliance and goodness, and her passing is an incalculable loss for our democracy and for all who sacrifice and strive to build a better future for our children,” House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said upon her passing. “Every family in America benefited from her brilliant legacy and courage. Her opinions have unequivocally cemented the precedent that all men and women are created equal.”
This is how the day is unfolding Friday — all times Eastern:
Sep 25, 6:01 am
RBG to lie in state Friday
Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg will lie in state in Statuary Hall in the Capitol on Friday after lying in repose in front of the Supreme Court on Wednesday and Thursday to allow public viewing.
A formal ceremony will be held Friday morning, but because of the COVID-19 pandemic, it will be open to invited guests only, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi announced.
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