Why Young Men in the US Should Pay Attention to and Advocate for the Equal Rights Amendment
July 31, 2024
The Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) has been a topic of debate for decades. The amendment was first introduced in 1923 and seeks to guarantee equal rights under the law regardless of sex. Despite the continued push for the amendment it has yet to be published in the U.S. Constitution, despite reaching the required number of states for ratification. Some people doubt the necessity of the ERA in 2023 and worry that it may strip away rights. However, the truth is that the ERA is beneficial for all people and will help to advance our economy.
One of the primary benefits of the ERA is that it will provide legal protection against discrimination on the basis of sex. This means that both men and women will be guaranteed equal rights under the law, including in the workplace. For example, currently, women in the U.S. still earn less than men for doing the same job. This is a form of sex discrimination that the ERA would help to eliminate. By ensuring equal pay for equal work, the ERA would help to boost the economy by increasing the spending power of women and the families they support (and don't we want everyone contributing to the growth of the economy?).
Another benefit of the ERA is that it would help to promote gender equality in all areas of life. This includes not just the workplace, but also in areas like education and healthcare. By guaranteeing equal rights, the ERA would help to create a society in which all people are treated with dignity and respect, regardless of their sex. This would help to promote a more inclusive and equitable society that benefits everyone.
Here are some examples of how the ERA would promote equality for all:
The focusing of public attention on the gross legal, economic, and social discrimination against women by hearings and debates in the Federal and State legislatures would result in changes in attitude of parents, educators, and employers that would bring about substantial economic changes in the long run.
- Shirley Chisholm, “FOR THE EQUAL RIGHTS AMENDMENT” (10 AUGUST 1970)
Some people worry that the ERA may strip away certain rights, but this is simply not true. The amendment does not take away any rights from any individual or group. Rather, it seeks to ensure that all people are guaranteed equal treatment under the law. By doing so, the ERA will help to create a society that is fair and just for everyone.
Moreover, the ERA is also beneficial for our economy. According to a report by the National Women’s Law Center, closing the gender wage gap would add billions of dollars to the U.S. economy each year. When women earn more money, they have more spending power, which can help to boost local businesses and stimulate economic growth. Additionally, promoting gender equality in the workplace can lead to greater innovation, creativity, and productivity.
The Equal Rights Amendment is a vital piece of legislation that will help to advance gender equality in all areas of life. It is not about taking away anyone’s rights, but rather about ensuring that all people are treated with dignity and respect. By promoting sex equality, the ERA will help to create a society that is fair and just for everyone. Additionally, it will benefit our economy by closing the gender wage gap and promoting greater innovation and productivity. It’s time to publish the ERA and create a better future for all people.
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