SCOTUS Landmark Cases

Landmark case: declared state laws establishing separate public schools for black and white students unconstitutional.

Ruled that school-sponsored prayer in public schools violates the Establishment Clause of the First Amendment.

Upheld the UofM Law School's affirmative action admissions policy, affirming the constitutionality of race as a factor

Legalized same-sex marriage, ruling that state bans on same-sex marriage violated the 14th Am Equal Protection Clause

Corporations/unions have the right to spend unlimited $ on political campaigns (money = speech) removing restrictions

Race-based quotas in college admissions violated the Equal Protection Clause of 14th Amendment (but wants diversity)

1st Amendment protection of freedom of the press, ruling the gov couldn't prevent the publication of the Pentagon Papers

Declared that burning the American flag as a form of protest is protected symbolic speech under the First Amendment.

Students' freedom of speech rights are protected in public schools unless they cause a substantial disruption.

Rights of parents to refuse to send children to school past 8th grade for religious reasons, despite education laws

Overcome legal barriers at state/local levels that prevent African Americans from exercising right to vote (15th Am)

Ruled in favor of a baker who refused to create a wedding cake for a same-sex couple

"Clear and present danger" test, limiting free speech when it presents a clear danger to public safety or order.

Public school students cannot be forced to salute the Flag or recite the Pledge if it violates their religious beliefs

Outlawed discrimination on race, color, religion, sex, national origin in employment practices and public accommodations

Invalidated part of the Voting Rights Act, eliminating oversight of election laws in states with discrimination history

Title VII of the Civil Rights Act protects employees from discrimination based on sexual orientation/gender identity