The United States Supreme Court Building was the site of the landmark ruling in Brown v. Board of Education, which combined five lawsuits fighting for public school desegregation. Chief Justice Earl Warren and the Warren Court unanimously overturned the “separate but equal” principle established in Plessy v. Ferguson (1896). This decision made it illegal to segregate public educational facilities and was the impetus for countless school integrations across the country.
Docents lead public Courtroom lectures at designated times during the day, and visitors can explore exhibits about the Supreme Court. For information on how to see the Court in session, visit www.supremecourt.gov and click “Courtroom Seating.”
