President Biden's Support for the Equal Rights Amendment: What's Next?

Jan. 18, 2025, 1:30 a.m. Politics

President Biden's Support for the Equal Rights Amendment: What's Next?

In recent years, the fight for gender equality has gained significant momentum, with movements such as #MeToo and Time's Up shining a light on the pervasive issues of gender discrimination and sexual harassment. In this context, President Joe Biden's vocal support for the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) has generated hope and optimism among advocates for women's rights. But what does this support actually mean, and what steps are needed to ensure the ERA becomes a reality?

The Equal Rights Amendment, first introduced in 1923 by suffragist Alice Paul, has been a long-standing symbol of the push for gender equality in the United States. The ERA seeks to guarantee equal rights under the law regardless of sex, closing legal loopholes that have allowed for discrimination against women in various aspects of life. Despite widespread support, the ERA has faced numerous obstacles over the years, failing to secure the necessary ratification from the required number of states.

President Biden's backing of the ERA represents a significant step forward in the ongoing battle for gender equality. In his first joint address to Congress, Biden emphasized the importance of passing the ERA, stating that "it's long past time that we ensure equal pay for women and men, and that's why I'm calling on Congress to pass the Paycheck Fairness Act – now." This public declaration of support signals a shift in the federal government's stance on women's rights and serves as a rallying cry for advocates to reignite the push for ratification.

However, while Biden's endorsement of the ERA is a positive development, it is important to note that his support alone is not enough to guarantee its passage. The ERA must be ratified by at least 38 states to be enshrined in the U.S. Constitution, a goal that remains elusive despite ongoing efforts by activists and lawmakers. As of 2021, only 38 out of the necessary 38 states have ratified the ERA, leaving the amendment in a legal limbo.

To achieve ratification, advocates for the ERA must focus on several key strategies. First and foremost, efforts should be directed towards securing the support of remaining states that have not yet ratified the amendment. States such as Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, North Carolina, Oklahoma, South Carolina, and Utah are among those that have yet to ratify the ERA, and targeted campaigns in these states could prove decisive in tipping the balance.

Additionally, lobbying efforts at the federal level will be crucial in pushing the ERA forward. Congressional support is essential in advancing the amendment through the legislative process, and proponents of the ERA must work tirelessly to garner bipartisan backing for its passage. Building coalitions across party lines and engaging with lawmakers to address their concerns and garner their support will be critical in surmounting political hurdles that have hindered progress in the past.

Moreover, raising public awareness and mobilizing grassroots support will be instrumental in building momentum for the ERA. Educating the public about the significance of the amendment and its potential impact on women's rights is key to generating widespread support and galvanizing action. Outreach initiatives, media campaigns, and community engagement efforts can help amplify the message of gender equality and rally citizens to demand swift action on the ERA.

In conclusion, President Biden's support for the Equal Rights Amendment represents a beacon of hope for advocates of gender equality, signaling a renewed commitment to advancing women's rights at the federal level. However, while Biden's endorsement is a positive step in the right direction, it is imperative that activists, lawmakers, and citizens alike continue to push for ratification through targeted strategies and concerted efforts. By working together to secure state ratifications, garner congressional support, and mobilize public engagement, the ERA stands a fighting chance of finally becoming enshrined in the U.S. Constitution, paving the way for a more equal and just society for future generations.