What is the purpose of the Equal Protection Clause?

The purpose of the Equal Protection Clause, found in the 14th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, is to require states to provide equal protection under the law to all individuals. This clause is foundational in promoting fairness and justice by ensuring that every person, regardless of race, gender, religion, or other characteristics, is treated equally in legal contexts. It serves to prohibit discrimination and has been central in landmark Supreme Court cases involving civil rights, helping to dismantle segregation and uphold individual rights.

While maintaining order in society, ensuring access to education, or protecting against unreasonable searches and seizures are essential legal principles, they do not encapsulate the primary focus of the Equal Protection Clause, which specifically addresses equality before the law for all individuals.