Linmark Associates, Inc. v. Township of Willingboro
United States Supreme Court
431 U.S. 85 (1977)
Facts
The Council of the Township of Willingboro (CTW) (defendant) became concerned that Caucasian residents would move out of its borders due to an increase in its minority resident population. In response to this concern, the CTW enacted an ordinance that prohibited the posting of “For Sale” or “Sold” signs on any residential properties within the municipality. The CTW believed that this would minimize Caucasian homeowners’ belief that other Caucasians were selling their homes and leaving the municipality. Linmark Associates, Inc. (plaintiff) owned property when the ordinance was passed and brought suit in federal district court seeking to enjoin its enforcement. The district court held that the ordinance was unconstitutional, but the court of appeals reversed. The United States Supreme Court granted certiorari.
Rule of Law
Issue
Holding and Reasoning (Marshall, J.)
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