Equal Rights Amendment Sent to States for Ratification
March 22nd, 1972
March 22nd, 1972

How Long Ago?
52 years, 11 months, 21 days ago
Location
Washington, D.C.
Category
Social Movements & Civil Rights
People
- Gerald Ford
- Betty Friedan
- Eleanor Roosevelt
- Alice Paul
Links & References
Tags
Equal Rights Amendment Sent to States for Ratification
The Equal Rights Amendment was passed by the United States Congress, intending to ensure equal legal rights for all American citizens regardless of sex. This milestone was the culmination of a long struggle for women's rights advocates who sought constitutional equality. The amendment prohibits discrimination based on sex and guarantees equality under the law. The ratification process began in state legislatures across the nation, reflecting the growing momentum for gender equality during this period in American history.
ERA aims for constitutional gender equality.
Passed by Congress with strong feminist support.
Challenged by conservative opposition.
Ratification fell short of necessary states.
What Happened?
The Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) was a significant legislative proposal aimed at guaranteeing equal legal rights for all citizens regardless of sex. On March 22, 1972, the United States Congress passed the ERA, marking a pivotal moment in the women's rights movement. The amendment emerged from decades of advocacy, propelled by activists like Alice Paul and organizations such as the National Organization for Women (NOW). The text of the amendment reads, 'Equality of rights under the law shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any State on account of sex.' This succinctly articulated the aspiration of the movement for gender parity in legal terms.Following the congressional passing of the ERA, the amendment was sent to the states for ratification. Advocates anticipated swift approval, buoyed by the momentum of the feminist movement of the late 1960s and early 1970s. However, the ratification process faced various challenges, including opposition from conservative groups who argued that the ERA would undermine traditional family structures and lead to unintended consequences in areas such as military service and child custody. Despite initial enthusiasm, the ERA was ultimately ratified by only 38 states, falling short by the 1982 deadline, highlighting the complexities of social movements and legislative processes.The ERA would continue to be a focal point for discussions around gender equality well into the following decades, reflecting not just the challenges of securing legal amendments but also broader societal attitudes toward women's rights. The conversation surrounding the amendment revealed deep divisions within the United States regarding gender roles, women’s place in the workforce, and the legislative protections necessary for achieving true equality.
Why Does it Matter?
The Equal Rights Amendment holds significant historical importance as it embodies the struggle for gender equality in the United States. It represents a critical juncture in the fight for women’s rights, encapsulating the aspirations of countless activists who fought for legislative recognition of equality. The conversations sparked by the ERA continue to influence modern discussions about gender discrimination and legal protections, making it a lasting symbol of the ongoing quest for equality.
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