Story perspectives

Kennedy Urges Civility, Reflects on Equality's Roots

10/14/2025

Summary

Story summary

Anthony Kennedy, former Associate Justice of the United States Supreme Court, reflects in Life, Law & Liberty on how his Western upbringing shaped his views on equality and freedom.
He cites Obergefell v. Hodges as a pivotal ruling in his career.
Kennedy laments rising partisanship and civility in the current Supreme Court.
He criticizes nominating politics and urges a return to respectful discourse.

History

Historical Context

The 2015 Supreme Court ruling in Obergefell v. Hodges legalized same-sex marriage across the United States, overturning state bans, including Ohio's, which had been in place since 2004. Justice Anthony Kennedy's majority opinion emphasized equality, reflecting ongoing civil rights struggles reminiscent of the 1960s. This landmark decision reshaped American civil rights and continues to influence discussions on judicial integrity and partisanship.

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Story summary

Anthony Kennedy, former Associate Justice of the United States Supreme Court, reflects in Life, Law & Liberty on how his Western upbringing shaped his views on equality and freedom.
He cites Obergefell v. Hodges as a pivotal ruling in his career.
Kennedy laments rising partisanship and civility in the current Supreme Court.
He criticizes nominating politics and urges a return to respectful discourse.

1 / 2