Bates v. City of Little Rock (361 U.S. 516)

Petitioners, custodians of the records of local branches of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, were tried, convicted and fined for violating identical occupational license tax ordinances of two Arkansas cities by refusing to furnish the city officials with lists of the names of the members of the local branches of the Association. Held: On the record in this case, compulsory disclosure of the membership lists would work unjustified interference with the members' freedom of association, which is protected by the Due Process Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment from invasion by the States; and the convictions are reversed. Pp. 517–527.

229 Ark. 819, 319 S.W.2d 37, reversed.

Robert L. Carter argued the cause for petitioners. With him on the brief was George Howard, Jr.

[p517] Joseph C. Kemp argued the cause for the City of Little Rock, respondent. With him on the brief was C. Richard Crockett.

MR. JUSTICE STEWART delivered the opinion of the Court.