The fight for equality has reached a critical moment. After nearly a century of advocacy, the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) is ready to become the 28th Amendment to the Constitution. Now, we need President Biden to take bold action and publish the ERA before his presidency ends. With time running out, it’s up to all of us to make our voices heard and demand gender equality is enshrined in the highest law of our land. Here’s what you need to know and how you can help.
What Is the Equal Rights Amendment?
The ERA is a proposed amendment to the U.S. Constitution that guarantees equal rights for all Americans, regardless of sex. Its simple yet profound language 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 amendment is essential for ensuring legal protections against gender discrimination in areas such as pay equity, reproductive rights, protections against gender-based violence, and more. Without the ERA, achieving full gender equality remains an uphill battle.
Has the ERA Been Ratified?
Yes! As of January 27, 2020, the ERA met the requirements outlined in Article V of the Constitution:
- Approval by two-thirds of both houses of Congress (achieved in 1972).
- Ratification by three-fourths of the states (achieved in 2020).
Despite satisfying these requirements, the ERA has not yet been published in the Federal Register as the 28th Amendment. The delay stems from questions about the validity of a ratification deadline Congress imposed in the 1970s. Leading constitutional scholars agree that the ERA is legally ratified and ready to be added to the Constitution. Now, we need President Biden to instruct the National Archivist to certify and publish it.
Why Does the ERA Matter?
The ERA would provide strong, constitutional protection against gender-based discrimination. Here are just a few of the ways it could make a difference:
- Gender-Based Violence: Strengthen legal pathways to hold perpetrators accountable.
- Reproductive Rights: Protect access to birth control, abortion, and other reproductive health care.
- Pay Equity: Close the gender pay gap by requiring stricter enforcement of equal pay laws.
- LGBTQIA+ Protections: Provide a legal foundation to combat discrimination based on gender identity and sexual orientation.
Without the ERA, these protections remain vulnerable to legislative rollbacks and judicial challenges. The ERA is not just a legal safeguard—it’s a moral imperative.
Why Act Now?
Time is running out. With mere weeks left in President Biden’s term, this is our last chance to push for the ERA under an administration that has expressed unwavering support for gender equality. Publishing the ERA would cement President Biden’s legacy as a leader who took decisive action to advance justice and equality for all.
How You Can Help
Your voice matters. Here’s how you can join the movement to ensure the ERA is published:
1. Contact the White House
Call and text the White House to demand action:
- Call: (202) 456-1111
- Text: (302) 404-0880
When you reach out, tell them why the ERA matters to you and urge President Biden to direct the National Archivist to publish it immediately.
2. Take to Social Media
Use your platforms to amplify the call for action. Share these messages to spread the word:
Post 1: We have the opportunity to protect gender equality and prevent discrimination, but we have to act now. President Biden, ensure the ERA is published before you leave the White House. Call (202) 456-1111 and text (302) 404-0880 to #PublishERA. #ERANow #BidenLegacy
Post 2: Gender equality can’t wait. The Equal Rights Amendment has met all requirements to become the 28th Amendment. Call (202) 456-1111 and text (302) 404-0880 to tell President Biden it’s time to #PublishERA. #ERANow #BidenLegacy
Post 3: If we don’t act now, basic rights could be at risk. Call (202) 456-1111 and text (302) 404-0880 to demand President Biden makes history and ensures gender equality for all. #PublishERA #ERANow #BidenLegacy
3. Engage Your Community
Encourage your friends, family, and colleagues to join the movement. Share this article, start conversations, and emphasize the urgency of acting before it’s too late.
Together, We Can Make History
The Equal Rights Amendment is long overdue. This is our chance to enshrine gender equality in the Constitution and create a more just and equitable future for all. Let’s make our voices heard and ensure President Biden knows the ERA must be published now.
Take action today. Call, text, and share. Together, we can ensure equality is a constitutional right for everyone.