Last week, Justice Clarence Thomas addressed an audience at the University of Texas at Austin, commemorating the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. His remarks focused on the role of the court, government, and the necessity of courage to adhere to what he considers the founders’ ideals. Learn more about the event and the ensuing discussions here.
Thomas, who is the longest-serving justice on the Supreme Court, was greeted by a standing ovation from a diverse audience comprising students, conservative lawmakers, judges, and Republican megadonor Harlan Crow. However, his presence was not universally welcomed; outside the venue, a protest unfolded, with signs referencing the university’s consolidation of certain departments, as reported here.
During his speech, Justice Thomas candidly discussed the decline in warmth and friendship among the justices, suggesting an erosion of collegiality. He cited influences over the years that have led some individuals to abandon their principles once they attain power. Thomas alluded to the case of Plessy v. Ferguson, questioning why it took so long for the court to recognize its faults, while highlighting Justice John Marshall Harlan’s lone dissent as the rightful stance. His comments offer a rare glimpse into the dynamics within the court, and how historical jurisprudence plays into contemporary decisions.
Justice Thomas concluded his speech by emphasizing the significance of courage and its habitual nature, connecting personal integrity with the enduring values embedded in the nation’s founding document. His insights add a complex layer to ongoing discussions surrounding the judiciary’s role in contemporary American society.