On the Basis of Sex

In 1956, Ruth Bader Ginsburg embarks on her academic journey as she starts her first year at Harvard Law School. Despite the challenges ahead, she is determined to succeed while also managing her family responsibilities, highlighting her remarkable resilience.

During her first year, Ruth also takes on the responsibility of attending her husband Martin's lectures as he battles cancer. This dual commitment showcases Ruth's dedication to her family while pursuing her education.

As the years progress, Martin’s health improves and his cancer goes into remission. This recovery allows him to accept a promising position at a prestigious law firm in New York, shifting their family dynamics and aspirations.

Facing obstacles at Harvard, Ruth petitions Dean Griswold to complete her law degree at Columbia Law School. After being denied, she makes the bold decision to transfer, demonstrating her determination to overcome barriers in her academic journey.

Despite her stellar academic performance, Ruth struggles to find a position at a law firm due to gender biases. Ultimately, she takes on a teaching role at Rutgers Law School, focusing her efforts on educating future lawyers about sex discrimination in the law.

In 1970, Martin introduces Ruth to the pivotal case of Moritz v. Commissioner, where Charles Moritz is denied a tax deduction due to gender discrimination. This case serves as a catalyst for Ruth's career in fighting gender discrimination through the legal system.

Determined to make a difference, Ruth approaches Mel Wulf from the ACLU for assistance with the Moritz case. Initially hesitant, Wulf's perspective changes thanks to the encouragement of activist Dorothy Kenyon, who recognizes the significance of Ruth’s mission.

Ruth travels to Denver to meet Charles Moritz, who agrees to let Ruth and the ACLU represent him pro bono. This agreement marks a significant step in their legal battle against gender discrimination, with implications that extend beyond their individual case.

As the legal battle intensifies, James H. Bozarth leads the defense against the existing law. Meanwhile, Ruth, grappling with her courtroom inexperience, struggles with anxiety during practice, but receives crucial support from her husband Martin.

During the court proceedings, Martin takes the lead while Ruth focuses on the equal protection arguments. Their collaboration exemplifies their partnership and commitment to challenging the legal norms of gender discrimination.

Facing a meager settlement of one dollar from the government, Ruth counters with a proposal for recognition of Moritz's deduction claim alongside a declaration about the unconstitutionality of restrictive gender clauses. This moment emphasizes her determination to challenge unjust laws.

The case proceeds to the Tenth Circuit Court of Appeals after the government rejects Ruth's counter. As they await the court's decision, tensions rise as the stakes of the case become clear for both genders and future legal practices.

During oral arguments, Ruth makes a compelling rebuttal that articulates the need for laws to evolve with society. Her assertion that traditional gender roles should not dictate legal recognition highlights her forward-thinking approach.

Following the court's unanimous ruling in favor of Moritz, Ruth, her family, and Wulf celebrate a significant victory in the fight against gender discrimination. This landmark case sets a precedent for future challenges against discriminatory laws.

In 1993, Ruth Bader Ginsburg is appointed as an associate justice of the U.S. Supreme Court. Her journey from a law student to the highest court in the nation symbolizes her profound impact on gender equality and justice in America.