The Financial Prioritization of Gender
December 03, 2025
Today marks the anniversary of one of the most significant breakthroughs in the fight for gender equality: Virginia becoming the 38th state to ratify the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA). But many people don’t know the full story — or why this moment is so important.
On January 27, 2020, after years of organizing, electoral strategy, and relentless advocacy, the Virginia General Assembly officially voted to ratify the Equal Rights Amendment. The Virginia Senate voted 27–12, and the House of Delegates voted 59–41, making Virginia the 38th and final state needed to meet the constitutional threshold for ratification. This historic, bipartisan action—finalized through separate chamber votes—delivered the three-quarters of states required to amend the Constitution.
This milestone was the culmination of nearly a century-long fight for equality under the law. Advocates organized, testified, marched, and called on leaders to make gender equality explicit in the Constitution. Again and again, they were told to wait.
The Road to Ratification in Virginia
In 2019, following decades of organizing by local leaders, ERA advocates in Virginia ran a major campaign for ratification. They showed up at the legislature, mobilized communities, and demanded action. But legislators ignored the call, and the campaign didn’t succeed. Many voters and activists felt the frustration of seeing progress blocked despite overwhelming public support.
Instead of giving up, they shifted strategy. In 2020, Virginians focused on electoral change. They worked to change the makeup of the legislature, electing leaders who were openly pro-equality and committed to ratifying the ERA. This strategy — rooted in the power of voting for equal rights — made all the difference.
With new leaders in place, Virginia ratified the ERA, becoming the 38th state to approve the amendment and cementing a historic victory for gender equality.
ERA Champions Who Made History
Virginia’s victory in ratifying the Equal Rights Amendment proves that meaningful change comes from action, organizing, voting, and refusing to accept inequality as inevitable. Generations of advocates showed up, spoke out, and persisted, and in 2020, their efforts finally paid off. From leaders like Representative Jennifer McClellan, VA State Senator Jennifer Carroll Foy, former VA Delegate Hala Ayala, Kati Hornung, Eileen Davis, and Diana Egozcue, to countless others who kept the fight alive, their story shows what happens when people join forces for a common cause. This is our moment to finish what decades of advocacy began, to share the story, and to continue building a future where gender equality is truly guaranteed.
Why This Story Matters Today
Virginia’s ratification proves that change happens when we show up over and over again, demanding accountability, and elect leaders who value equality and justice.
Make your voice count in upcoming elections to ensure equality remains a priority, and keep pushing forward so the promise of the ERA continues to shape our future.
Watch the film, Ratified, to see the full story of Virginia’s ratification of the ERA, and invite others to watch it too, to learn this inspiring story.
Learn More About the ERA
Explore the history, and why the ERA matters.
Claim the ERA for Yourself
Share your story, educate your community, and take part in campaigns to continue building momentum for gender equality.
Vote for and Elect Equality candidates. The ERA victory in Virginia was made possible by voters. Make your voice count in upcoming elections to ensure equality remains a priority.
