I Dissent: Ruth Bader Ginsburg Makes Her Mark

Book Summary:

I Dissent tells the inspiring story of Ruth Bader Ginsburg, who challenged unfair rules and fought for justice throughout her life and career. From a young age, she stood up against discrimination based on gender, religion, and race, ultimately becoming a Supreme Court Justice who used her voice to speak out—dissent—against inequality. The story celebrates courage, persistence, and the power of respectful disagreement to create social change.

Recommended Questions:

1. What words best describe Ruth Bader Ginsburg’s personality and character? Provide evidence from the book.

2. What kinds of prejudice and injustices did Ruth notice in her community, and how did she respond to them? What injustices do you see in your community today?

3. If you were Ruth, which of her accomplishments would make you most proud, and why?

4. Ruth and Justice Antonin Scalia disagreed on many issues yet maintained a strong friendship. What can we learn about respectful disagreement and democracy from their example?

5. The author repeats the phrase “one disagreement after another.” What message do you think this repetition is meant to convey about persistence and advocacy?

6. As of 2025, only a few women have served on the U.S. Supreme Court. What other careers or leadership roles have historically lacked diversity? How can we work together to make those spaces more inclusive?

7. What does it mean to “dissent,” and why is dissent an important part of democracy?

8. How can you use your own voice to stand up for fairness in your classroom, school, or community?

Standards:

NCSS Theme 6: Power, Authority and Governance

This book aligns with the NCSS theme Power, Authority, and Governance because it explores how individuals can work within systems of government to challenge unjust laws and policies. Ruth Bader Ginsburg’s story demonstrates how the judicial branch functions, how dissent shapes democracy, and how civic participation can strengthen fairness and equality in society.

Social Justice Anchor Standard 15: Fairness and Justice

I Dissent powerfully illustrates Standard 15 because it shows how Ruth Bader Ginsburg used her role, voice, and legal expertise to confront gender discrimination and promote fairness for all. The book encourages readers to see that standing up against injustice—through dissent, advocacy, and courage—is an essential way individuals and communities advance equality and equity. It inspires civic responsibility and empowers students to believe their actions can lead to change.

WA Civics 2: Understands the purposes, organization and function of governments, laws and political systems

This book illustrates how the judicial branch operates within the U.S. government and how laws evolve through interpretation and dissent. Students learn that government systems are designed to protect rights, but also that individuals like Ginsburg play a vital role in improving those systems to ensure equality and justice for all.