Meaning: The quote "Dissents speak to a future age" is attributed to Ruth Bader Ginsburg, a prominent figure in American legal history. Ruth Bader Ginsburg, often referred to as RBG, was an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States from 1993 until her passing in 2020. Throughout her career, she became known for her powerful and influential dissents, which often conveyed her unwavering commitment to justice and equality.

In this quote, Ginsburg is expressing the idea that dissents, or the opinions expressed by judges who disagree with the majority in a court decision, have the potential to resonate and hold significance for future generations. Rather than simply representing a disagreement with the current ruling, dissents have the power to shape the course of legal and societal developments over time.

Ginsburg's own dissents have indeed spoken to future ages. She was known for writing impassioned and eloquent dissents that articulated her vision of a more just and equitable society. Her dissents often addressed issues of gender equality, civil rights, and access to justice, reflecting her lifelong dedication to advancing the rights of marginalized and underrepresented groups.

One notable example of Ginsburg's impactful dissenting opinion can be found in the case of Shelby County v. Holder in 2013. This case involved a challenge to a key provision of the Voting Rights Act of 1965, a landmark piece of civil rights legislation. In her dissent, Ginsburg fiercely criticized the majority's decision to strike down the provision, warning of the potential adverse consequences for voting rights and equality. Her dissent not only garnered attention at the time but also continues to be cited and revered as a powerful defense of voting rights.

Ginsburg's quote also reflects a broader truth about the role of dissent in the legal system and society as a whole. Dissents can serve as a catalyst for change, laying the groundwork for future legal developments and societal progress. By challenging prevailing opinions and advocating for alternative perspectives, dissents can inspire reconsideration and reevaluation of existing norms and practices.

Moreover, the notion that dissents speak to a future age underscores the enduring relevance of legal principles and the ongoing evolution of societal values. While a dissenting opinion may not carry the day in the immediate context of a specific case, it can resonate with future generations and contribute to the evolution of legal doctrine and social attitudes.

In essence, Ruth Bader Ginsburg's quote encapsulates the profound impact of dissent within the legal system and society. It serves as a reminder of the enduring power of principled opposition and the potential for dissenting voices to shape the trajectory of justice and equality for years to come. As such, the quote encapsulates Ginsburg's legacy as a trailblazing jurist and advocate for progress, whose dissents continue to resonate and inspire long after her passing.