It’s ironic that the most consistently robust civic debate in the United States takes place just outside of the least democratic branch of the federal government — with lively demonstrations occurring after the decisions have been made.

Monday was the last day of decisions at the U.S. Supreme Court, and the scene was vibrant and eclectic as activists awaited the ruling on the Obama administration‘s contraception mandate in the Hobby Lobby case.

Recommended Stories

Obama’s corporatist contraceptive mandate

Appeals court scrutinizes religious exemptions in Little Sisters contraception fight

Bigotry masquerading as religious liberty: Mississippi business denies service to interracial couples