In the case of Méndez v. Westminster, decided in 1946, a group of Mexican American students challenged the segregation policies in California schools. They argued that the practice of placing them in separate schools based on their ethnicity violated their rights. The case was significant as it highlighted the discrimination faced by Mexican Americans and set a precedent for future civil rights cases. The court ruled in favor of the students, stating that the segregation was unconstitutional. This decision helped pave the way for the broader civil rights movement, emphasizing the importance of equal education for all, regardless of race or ethnicity.