Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg And The Evolution Of Workers' Rights: A Legacy Of Fairness And Equality
- IJLLR Journal
- Feb 23
- 1 min read
Aditi Raj Jha, Symbiosis Law School, Hyderabad
ABSTRACT
Ruth Bader Ginsburg (RBG) was a pioneer in the advancement of workers' rights, especially in the fields of union protections, pay equity, and anti- discrimination. Her decisions and dissents as a justice on the U.S. Supreme Court influenced labor law by promoting procedural justice, fairness, and transparency in employment relations. This paper examines RBG’s1 legal philosophy and her impact on key labor law cases, including Ledbetter v. Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co. (2007)2, Epic Systems Corp. v. Lewis (2018)3, and Hibbs v. Nevada (2003)4. Her vehement dissents frequently brought attention to legal protections' shortcomings, which prompted legislative changes like the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act.
This study also looks at how RBG's perspective on workers' rights might be used to address contemporary employment issues including algorithmic management and labor disputes in the gig economy. Concerns about bias, collective bargaining, and due process have grown in importance as AI- driven workplace decisions become more common. Through an analysis of RBG's judicial reasoning, this paper makes the case that her legal framework, which is focused on worker protections and equal opportunity, remains a crucial basis for tackling modern labor issues. Finally, RBG's legacy continues to shape future legal interpretations and policy choices, influencing the struggle for ethical labor practices. In an age of automation and digital management, her dedication to justice offers crucial insights into guaranteeing that workers' rights are respected as workplaces change.
