Shelley et Ux. v. Kraemer et Ux.

Opinion summary

Etalia.ai summary of the majority opinion

The case addressed the enforceability of racially restrictive covenants in property deeds. The Shelleys, an African American family, purchased a home in St. Louis that was subject to such a covenant prohibiting occupancy by non-Caucasians. Neighbors sued to prevent them from taking possession based on this agreement. The Supreme Court ruled unanimously that while private parties may abide by these covenants voluntarily, state enforcement through courts constitutes state action and violates the Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment. Thus, judicial enforcement of racially restrictive covenants is unconstitutional as it involves significant government involvement in racial discrimination.