On September 3, 2025, I delivered a talk on “The Architect as Nation-Builder” at NatCon. Speaking of how public architecture can inspire civic virtue, I quoted Cass Gilbert, architect of the U.S. Supreme Court, on the underlying philosophy of his work: “It is an inspiration toward patriotism and good citizenship, it encourages just pride in the state, and is an education to on-coming generations to see these things, imponderable elements of life and character, set before the people for their enjoyment and betterment…. It is a symbol of the civilization, culture and ideals of our country.”
I noted, “It was Gilbert himself who was responsible for the phrase above the entrance to the Supreme Court: ‘Equal justice under law.’ Those words have become a famous tag line for the court, but it was the idea of the architect—a true nation-builder.”