Supreme Court decisions have played a massive role in shaping American society. Some of these rulings have advanced justice and equality, while others have sparked intense debates. This blog explores some of the most important Supreme Court cases, looking at how they’ve changed our laws and the way we live.

Breaking Down Barriers: Victories in Civil Rights

Ending School Segregation – Brown v. Board of Education (1954):
For many years, schools in the United States were segregated, meaning white children and Black children had to go to separate schools. This was supposed to be “separate but equal,” but in reality, the schools for Black children were often much worse. In Brown v. Board of Education, the Supreme Court decided this segregation was unconstitutional, which wasn’t allowed under the U.S. Constitution. This ruling was a huge victory for the Civil Rights Movement, helping to end segregation and push for more equality in America. Justice Earl Warren, majority opinion. (There was no dissenting opinion as the decision was unanimous.)

Protecting Women’s Privacy Rights – Roe v. Wade (1973):
Women’s rights took a significant step forward with the Supreme Court’s decision in Roe v. Wade. In this case, the Court recognized that a woman has a constitutional right to privacy, which includes the right to make decisions about her own body, such as whether to have an abortion. This ruling has been one of the most talked-about decisions in American history, continuing to influence discussions on reproductive rights even today: Justice Harry Blackmun, majority opinion, and Justice William Rehnquist, dissent.

Equal Marriage Rights for All – Obergefell v. Hodges (2015):
In 2015, the Supreme Court made a historic ruling in Obergefell v. Hodges, deciding that same-sex couples have the right to marry anywhere in the United States. This decision was a significant milestone for LGBTQIA+ rights, ensuring that marriage equality was recognized under the Constitution. The ruling marked a significant step toward equality, showing how the Court can reflect and support society’s evolving values. Justice Anthony Kennedy, majority opinion; Chief Justice John Roberts, Justice Antonin Scalia, Justice Clarence Thomas, and Justice Samuel Alito, dissent.

Strengthening Government Power: Economic and Federal Power

Supporting Workers’ Rights – West Coast Hotel Co. v. Parrish (1937):
During the Great Depression, the federal government introduced many laws to protect workers and help the economy recover. One of the most important cases during this time was West Coast Hotel Co. v. Parrish. The Supreme Court ruled that states could set minimum wage laws, which meant that workers had to be paid a fair amount for their work. This decision was a turning point, showing the Court’s willingness to support government efforts to protect workers and regulate the economy: Chief Justice Charles Evans Hughes, majority opinion, and Justice George Sutherland, dissent.

Upholding Healthcare for Millions – National Federation of Independent Business v. Sebelius (2012):
In 2012, the Supreme Court faced a crucial decision regarding the Affordable Care Act, commonly known as Obamacare. In National Federation of Independent Business v. Sebelius, the Court upheld the law’s most important part—the individual mandate, which required everyone to have health insurance or pay a penalty. This ruling helped ensure that millions of Americans could access healthcare, demonstrating the Court’s role in shaping the country’s healthcare system. Chief Justice John Roberts, majority opinion; Justice Antonin Scalia, Justice Anthony Kennedy, Justice Clarence Thomas, and Justice Samuel Alito, dissent.

Decisions That Sparked Controversy: Controversies and Backlash

Deciding a Presidential Election – Bush v. Gore (2000):
One of the most recent and controversial Supreme Court cases was Bush v. Gore, which effectively decided the 2000 presidential election. The Court’s ruling stopped the recount of votes in Florida, which led to George W. Bush winning the presidency. This decision was highly debated, with many people arguing that the Court had stepped into the political arena, raising questions about the balance of power in American democracy. Per Curiam (unsigned – see my sidebar below), majority opinion, Justice John Paul Stevens, Justice David Souter, Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, and Justice Stephen Breyer, dissent.

Opening the Floodgates for Money in Politics – Citizens United v. FEC (2010):
In Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission, the Supreme Court made a decision that had a massive impact on American elections. The ruling allowed corporations and unions to spend unlimited money on political campaigns if they did not coordinate directly with the candidates. Critics argue that this decision has given too much financial influence to wealthy individuals and organizations, making it harder for ordinary citizens’ voices to be heard in the political process. Justice Anthony Kennedy, majority opinion, and Justice John Paul Stevens, dissent.

Rolling Back Abortion Rights – Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization (2022):
In a groundbreaking and controversial ruling, the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade with its decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization. This case upheld a Mississippi law banning most abortions after 15 weeks and effectively returned the power to regulate abortion to individual states. The decision has led to widespread debate and protests, as it removed federal protection for abortion rights and allowed states to impose their restrictions. Justice Samuel Alito, majority opinion, Justice Stephen Breyer, Justice Sonia Sotomayor, and Justice Elena Kagan, dissent.

Limiting Environmental Protections – West Virginia v. Environmental Protection Agency (2022):
In this decision, the Supreme Court limited the EPA’s authority to regulate greenhouse gas emissions from power plants. The ruling stated that such significant regulations require explicit congressional authorization. This decision raised concerns about the federal government’s ability to combat climate change, as it restricted the EPA’s role in enforcing environmental protections. Chief Justice John Roberts, majority opinion, and Justice Elena Kagan, dissent.

Expanding Gun Rights – New York State Rifle & Pistol Association Inc. v. Bruen (2022):
The Supreme Court ruled against a New York law requiring people to show “proper cause” to get a permit to carry a concealed handgun in public. This decision expanded gun rights by making it easier for people to carry guns in public, even as concerns about gun violence grow. The ruling sparked debates over the balance between individual rights and public safety. Justice Clarence Thomas, majority opinion, and Justice Stephen Breyer, Justice Sonia Sotomayor, and Justice Elena Kagan, dissent.

Religious Expression in Public Schools – Kennedy v. Bremerton School District (2022):
In this case, the Supreme Court ruled in favor of a high school football coach who prayed on the field after games. The Court decided that the coach’s prayer was protected under the First Amendment, highlighting the ongoing tension between religious expression and the separation of church and state in public institutions. Justice Neil Gorsuch, majority opinion, and Justice Sonia Sotomayor, Justice Stephen Breyer, and Justice Elena Kagan, dissent.

Presidential Immunity and Criminal Prosecution – Trump v. United States (2024):
In this case, the Supreme Court ruled on whether former President Donald J. Trump could be criminally prosecuted for actions taken during his presidency, specifically related to his efforts to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election. The Court held that while the President enjoys absolute immunity for actions within the scope of official duties, this immunity does not extend to unofficial acts. The case was returned to the lower courts to determine which actions qualified for immunity. Chief Justice John Roberts, majority opinion; Justice Sonia Sotomayor, Justice Elena Kagan, and Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson, dissent.

These Rulings are Essential for Protecting Our Democracy

The Supreme Court’s rulings are not just legal decisions; they shape our democracy and our daily lives. Whether advancing civil rights, supporting government regulation, or sparking controversy, these rulings have far-reaching consequences. Understanding these landmark cases helps us see how the Court protects, challenges, and sometimes changes the foundations of our democracy. As we look to the future, it’s essential to recognize the power of the Supreme Court in shaping the laws and values that define our nation.