A window into the minds of two U.S. Supreme Court justices opened today, when the institution announced that it will soon be shutting the big bronze doors to its iconic facade.
Citing renovations and security concerns, the Court announced on May 3 that the doors, which have served as the building's main entrance for litigants, tourists, and justices alike since its opening in 1935, will be closed to the public starting this week. Justice Stephen Breyer, joined by Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, issued an official memorandum lamenting the course of action.
"While I recognize the reasons for this change, on balance I do not believe they justify it," Breyer writes. "I think the change is unfortunate, and I write in the hope that the public will one day in the future be able to enter the Court's Great Hall after passing under the famous words "Equal Justice Under Law."
Although visitors will need to enter through a new screening portal at the side of the main stairs starting Tuesday, May 4, the historical front doors will still be operational as an exit from the building. Additional information about visiting the Supreme Court can be found on the Court's website.
Citing renovations and security concerns, the Court announced on May 3 that the doors, which have served as the building's main entrance for litigants, tourists, and justices alike since its opening in 1935, will be closed to the public starting this week. Justice Stephen Breyer, joined by Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, issued an official memorandum lamenting the course of action.
"While I recognize the reasons for this change, on balance I do not believe they justify it," Breyer writes. "I think the change is unfortunate, and I write in the hope that the public will one day in the future be able to enter the Court's Great Hall after passing under the famous words "Equal Justice Under Law."
Although visitors will need to enter through a new screening portal at the side of the main stairs starting Tuesday, May 4, the historical front doors will still be operational as an exit from the building. Additional information about visiting the Supreme Court can be found on the Court's website.
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