Brief Fact Summary. This case considers the constitutionality of a Human Relations Ordinance (the Ordinance), which facially directs newspapers/editors on how they should carry and place their “help-wanted” ads.
Synopsis of Rule of Law. Commercial speech is not constitutionally protected, even when it is included in a newspaper.
Issue. This case considers whether the First Amendment freedom of the press extends to the discretion of editors when dealing with commercial speech, which is otherwise regulated by the Ordinance.
Held. Justice Lewis Powell (J. Powell). Affirmed.
Petitioner’s argument that the decision of how to place “help-wanted” ads is editorial in nature and thus is elevated from the level of commercial speech, was unpersuasive. The Supreme Court held that, regardless of Editorial license, discrimination in employment is illegal commercial activity under the guidelines of the Ordinance and as such it should be avoided, even to the minute level proscribed by the placement of “help-wanted” ads.
That the Times was paid for publishing the advertisement is as immaterial in this connection as is the fact that newspapers and books are sold.
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