Brown v. Board of Education (II)

Brief Fact Summary.

After its decision in Brown v. Board of Education (Brown I), the Court convened to issue the directives which would help to implement racial desegregation.

Synopsis of Rule of Law.

Schools must integrate (allow black students into) all-white schools “with all deliberate speed.”

Facts.

After its decision in Brown v. Board of Education (Brown I), which declared racial segregation in public education unconstitutional a year prior, the Court convened to issue the directives which would help to implement its newly announced constitutional principle of racial desegregation.

Issue.

What means should be used to implement the principles announced in Brown I?

Held.

The Brown I decision shall be implemented “with all deliberate speed.”

Discussion.

The problems identified in Brown I require varied local solutions. The particular means of each solution is highly dependent on local school authorities and the courts that originally heard the school segregation cases. However, they must implement the principles embraced in the Brown I decision and must act on the new principles promptly and comply with them “with all deliberate speed.” The burden rests upon the Defendants to establish whether certain additional time may be necessary, consistent with good faith compliance at the earliest practicable date. To that end, the courts may consider problems related to administration, arising from the physical condition of the school plant, the school transportation system, personnel, etc.