Supreme Court Unanimously Backs Ohio Woman in Landmark Discrimination Case

In a landmark decision, the Supreme Court has unanimously ruled in favor of Marlean Ames, an Ohio woman who claimed she faced discrimination for job promotions at the Ohio Department of Youth Services. The 9-0 ruling, penned by Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson, strikes down a long-standing Sixth Circuit rule that placed a heavier burden of proof on majority group plaintiffs in discrimination cases under Title VII.

Ames, a heterosexual woman employed since 2004, argued she was overlooked for a promotion in 2019 in favor of a lesbian candidate and later demoted for a gay man. The Court’s decision clarifies that no heightened evidentiary standard should apply to majority group members, ensuring a level playing field in discrimination claims. As Justice Jackson noted, "Title VII does not impose such a heightened standard on majority group plaintiffs."

While this ruling vacates the lower court’s judgment, it doesn’t fully settle Ames’ case. The justices left room for Ohio to present alternative justifications for their actions, sending the case back for further review. This decision is a significant step toward redefining how discrimination laws are applied, emphasizing fairness across all protected classes.

Beyond the legal jargon, this case shines a light on the broader struggle for equality in workplaces. It’s a reminder that discrimination isn’t just a minority issue—it can cut both ways, and the law must adapt to reflect that reality.