What does the "Equal Protection Clause" state?

The "Equal Protection Clause," which is found in the Fourteenth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, states that no state shall deny to any person within its jurisdiction the equal protection of the laws. This clause is designed to ensure that individuals in similar circumstances are treated equally by the law. It prohibits states from enforcing laws that provide unequal treatment or privileges based on arbitrary characteristics such as race, gender, or religion.

This principle has been foundational in various landmark Supreme Court cases addressing civil rights and anti-discrimination efforts, ensuring that individuals receive equal legal protections and treatment under state laws. By affirming that all persons are entitled to equal protection, this clause serves as a crucial mechanism for addressing and challenging inequalities within the legal system.