Did you know that women are not mentioned in the U.S. Constitution nor that it guarantees equality between sexes? Equal Rights Amendment was introduced back in 1923 and has not yet been ratified yes (read all about it here). What impact would the passage of the Equal Rights Amendment have on society, and what are the arguments for and against its ratification?
Please leave at least three comments. One is your original contribution. And two comments are your replies to your classmates. Deadline: December 3rd, 11:59 pm.
If the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) of 1923 were ratified, it would mean a big positive change for women in the U.S. This constitutional recognition would provide a robust legal foundation for addressing and rectifying persisting gender inequalities, offering women heightened protections against discrimination. By constitutionally affirming equal rights, the ERA could also serve as a crucial tool in responding to other challenges, such as limitations on reproductive rights.
Totally agree that Equal Rights through the ERA could indeed bring a stronger foundation for defending reproductive rights and addressing challenges.
Hello Jamal, I agree with your response I also think ratifying such regulation can help women in all aspects it would protect them from gender discrimination.
Hello Jamal,
I agree with your statement on the Equal Rights Amendment being ratified. Gender inequalities are highlighted in many institutions today. The legal process in the United States is complex and has many steps for words to be written into law. If outreach for Women’s rights continues we can see a constructive change in legislation, women in the United States will have a legal document providing support.
I strongly agree that if it were ratified it would change gender inequalities drastically. Without the ERA, women and men alike would frequently have to engage in protracted, costly, and challenging judicial battles to establish their equal rights to those of the other sex. The ERA would raise American awareness of human rights in the international community.
Hi Jamal
I agree women would have way more opportunity and bigger roles in the communities and foundations of our country
Hi Jamal, I also mentioned how it would be a positive change.It is only fair for Women should be able to have the same pay and opportunities.
I agree and think it can also open doors beyond gender inequalities such as sex identification and race.
The Equal Rights Amendment aims to guarantee equal rights for all American citizens regardless of their sex. Arguments for its ratification include promoting gender equality, closing loopholes allowing discrimination, and creating a clearer constitutional foundation for gender-based rights. Their concerns are mostly losing what has been made to protect the WOMEN which could also impact the area of family law and could result in a loss of gender accommodations and protections. The Equal Rights (ERA) debate involves complex legal impacts on our society.
Hi Veyla, I agree with what you are saying I think the constitution isn’t so clear, and ratifying this amendment can make things more clear for people to understand. This can also as you said create no run-around or loop-holes. Thanks for your response.
Dear Veyla, I agree that ratifying the amendment would make things more clearer. Gender equality is very important. I would like to add on that treating both genders equally in terms of rights, duties, and opportunities is known as gender equality. On the other hand, gender equity is about justice. Privilege, bias, and other factors that may restrict someone’s access to opportunities must be taken into account in order to guarantee that everyone has equal possibilities.
If equal rights amendment were to be ratified it would protect women. This would give women equality. Abortion takes away from womens rights ,in the new york times By Kate Shaw and Julie C. Suk it states” Dobbs decision effectively exposes millions of American women to laws that force them to bear children, even those conceived through sexual assault, in states that do nothing to alleviate the burdens, disadvantages and risks stemming from both pregnancy and motherhood.” In other words women were forced to keep a child in any circumstances. This also resembles the way both genders are not viewed as the same more like men were more in control of female bodies and to make matters worst women had less opportunity to speak up. men were in control of the government and constitutions adding an admentment like this can provide equality between men and women. People who oppose think there is already laws that help combat against gender discrimination.
Hi Andi,
I strongly believe that the ratification of the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) can help ensure the protection of women’s rights and promote genuine gender equality. As discussed in the New York Times by Kate Shaw and Julie C. Suk, the amendment can address the need for such constitutional provisions.
The recent legal decisions that restrict women’s reproductive rights have raised concerns about the urgency of constitutional clarity. Therefore, the ERA represents a crucial step towards dismantling systemic gender imbalances and challenging the historical control that men have exerted over women’s bodies and reproductive choices.
While some argue that current laws adequately address gender discrimination, the ERA offers a more comprehensive and unequivocal stance on equal rights, laying a solid foundation for a fair and inclusive society.
The farmers of the Constitution only had a select group of people in mind when creating the historical document. The individuals that participated in the constitutional convention were amongst the richest men in the country, wealth was determined by the ownership of property. The only group of people that fall under this category, were wealthy white men. The United States has tried to make progress on equality for all groups in this country but there is still much to accomplish. The Equal Rights Amendment (1923) was proposed to secure full equality for women , women during this time and even to this day experience discrimination because of sex. It states that “Equality of rights under the law shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any State on account of sex.” Women today have much more rights and opportunities than ever before but there is still work to be done. Today you have multiple examples of women throwing away “societal norms” and achieving exceptional feats in all areas of the world. The Constitution is one of the most difficult documents to amend. Amendments are vital to the growth and change of the United States. The United States isn’t how it was back in the day of the inception of this document, the world has changed and we see many advances in all areas of the world. We must change with the times and adapt to our current situation. The ratification of the Constitution will not only protect and defend women for gender discrimination, but shine light on other outdated policies in the nation.
Hi Khalid,
I agree today women have more rights and things they are able to do but I feel as there is much more they can do and be allowed to freely. Think the country and communities would benefit from this.
Hi Khaild
Thank you for sharing your perspective on the historical context of the Constitution and the ongoing pursuit of equality, particularly in the context of the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) it adds an interesting point of view. It is indeed crucial to recognize the limitations of the original framers’ vision and the exclusive group they represented. The struggle for gender equality, as highlighted by the ERA, remains a significant challenge. While progress has been made, there are persistent disparities that need attention. Acknowledging the evolving nature of society and adapting the Constitution to contemporary needs is an essential aspect of a dynamic and inclusive democracy. Your point about the Constitution being one of the most difficult documents to amend is noteworthy. The deliberate difficulty in amending it reflects the framer’s intent for stability but also underscores the importance of careful consideration when proposing changes. The ERA, as you rightly point out, not only addresses gender discrimination but also encourages a broader reflection on outdated policies.
As society continues to evolve, it is crucial to have conversations like these to identify areas where our foundational documents may need adjustments to better reflect the values and principles of an inclusive and diverse nation. Your call to adapt to the current situation resonates well with the ongoing discourse on constitutional reform. It is through thoughtful dialogue and a commitment to justice that we can hope to bridge the gaps and build a more equitable future.
I agree Khalid, the historical context of the Constitution’s creation reflects a focus on the interests of wealthy white men. The proposal of the ERA in 1923 aimed to address this acknowledging the progress made in women’s rights while emphasizing the need to adapt to contemporary challenges, and demonstrating the ongoing pursuit of equality and the potential for more societal changes through constitutional amendments.
The impact that the passage of the Equal Rights Amendment has on society is that by ensuring that legal rights cannot be withheld or restricted because of a person’s gender, it would offer a basic constitutional remedy against sex discrimination. For the first time, sex would be viewed with the same equality as race and religion. Ensuring that all people, regardless of gender, are treated equally under the law is a key justification for the ERA. Presently, the 14th Amendment does not specifically mention women but grants equal rights to all citizens. The argument for it is that the world would be a better place with no drama. To treat someone equally, you must treat them the same way regardless of gender, race, social standing, ability, religion, or other factors. Everyone in a community should be able to collaborate, solve issues, feel safe, and be taken care of if they are all treated fairly. On the other hand, a con is that women would lose rights and protections like being excluded from combat duty and mandatory military service. They would not get financial support from their husbands for themselves and their children, which was the primary grounds for opposition to the ERA.
Hi Alyssa,
I agree that the passage of the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) would be a significant step toward ensuring gender equality and eliminating discrimination. It aligns with the principle that all individuals deserve equal treatment under the law, akin to protections based on race and religion. However, it’s crucial to address concerns raised about potential unintended consequences, such as the impact on women’s rights and protections, like those related to military service and financial support. Striking a balance that promotes equality while addressing specific concerns is essential for comprehensive and effective societal change. Achieving true equality requires thoughtful consideration of diverse perspectives.
Hello Alyssa, I also believe as well regardless of sex you should be granted equal rights as a citizen. You shouldn’t be discriminated for your gender.
I just wanted to add on and say that I think it is unfair that women would be hit with the negatives if the amendment was to go through and I think there should be another way so everyone can win
The ratification of the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) would represent a significant milestone in the quest for gender equality within society. Advocates posit that the ERA, by explicitly proscribing discrimination based on sex, would provide a constitutional foundation upon which to address gender disparities and ensure impartial treatment under the law. They contend that the ERA is indispensable in fostering a more inclusive and equitable society, advancing equal opportunities in key domains, such as employment, education, and legal entitlements. Conversely, opponents express apprehensions about potential unintended consequences, fearing that the ERA could undermine legal distinctions between men and women and disrupt existing policies aimed at addressing gender-related issues. Some critics argue that the ERA might jeopardize specific legal protections and inadvertently impact areas such as family law. The debate surrounding the ERA encapsulates broader discussions about the role of constitutional amendments in shaping societal norms and the ongoing struggle for gender equality in the United States.
The Equal Rights Amendment aims to guarantee equal rights for all American citizens regardless of their sex. Arguments for its ratification are the promotion of gender equality, and creating a constitution that is for both sex. This would cause less conflict among people as everyone would be treated equal regardless of gender, religion, and race. It gives the equal chance to all parties and allows a fair even opportunities.
hey Elijah , I definitely agree, If the ERA was passed this could definitely cause less conflicts
Hi everyone,
The Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) is a proposed amendment to the United States Constitution that aims to explicitly guarantee equal rights under the law regardless of sex. The passage of the ERA would have significant implications for society, and there are arguments both for and against its ratification. Proponents argue that the ERA is necessary to provide explicit constitutional protection against sex-based discrimination. While the 14th Amendment has been interpreted to cover gender equality, the ERA would make this protection more explicit and robust. Supporters believe that the ERA would help guard against various forms of discrimination faced by women, including pregnancy and motherhood discrimination, gender-based violence such as domestic violence and sexual assault, and workplace disparities. The ERA is seen as a safeguard for reproductive rights, ensuring that women have control over their reproductive lives. This includes protection against restrictive abortion laws and other measures that could limit women’s reproductive choices. Critics argue that the ERA is unnecessary as existing constitutional amendments, such as the 14th Amendment, already protect against sex discrimination. They believe that the ERA would be redundant and might not bring about significant changes in legal interpretation. Women need to be protected, seen, and heard by their male peers and their female peers. Young girls need to know someone is fighting for their rights. Women deserve the opportunity to have equal rights if not women are not safe and not given fair opportunities.
Hey Alexis,
I like how you presented both points of view in a balanced manner. The ERA’s proponents’ focus on the necessity of clear constitutional protection against sex-based discrimination is in keeping with the continued problems that women face in a variety of fields. The Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) plays a significant role in protecting reproductive rights by addressing important issues such as pregnancy discrimination and guaranteeing women’s autonomy over their reproductive decisions. Considering the current constitutional modifications, I can appreciate the concerns expressed by those who question the ERA’s applicability. But I think the ERA’s clear emphasis on gender equality can act as a potent symbol and spark for social transformation. The ERA can make a major contribution to the underlying belief that women should be protected, seen, and heard.
I question the same thing all the time when it comes to men and woman, when woman ask for same pay rates that means we wanna be stronger than men or we feel equal to men? However, when it’s time to respect women we cannot receive the same respect as men. When a man rape a woman his balls aren’t chopped off like he isn’t worthy but if a woman decides that she isn’t strong enough to be pro choice when a baby that reminds her of innocence stolen from her? She “worthless” , taunted, and hated by society! While in gaza children are being murdered , the prochoice movement is not chanting through social media and taking a stance but they can chant at abortion clinics putting other woman down who’ve made a choice to not keep a child they wouldn’t be able to love and cherish but when men are killing families. Mainly women and children where are the people who crowd abortion clinics screaming prochoice? Is it really equal rights or is it equal when it goes against one’s belief ?
The impact the passage of the Equal Rights Amendment have on society would be a positive impact. By promoting gender equality, regardless of what sex you are you have all right to be treated as equal. Arguments for the ratification will ensure Pay and career opportunities will be available to everyone equally regardless of gender. It will ensure no gender discrimination will take place. Those against the ratification don’t agree with it being necessary because sex discrimination is already prohibitted in other laws.
I agree with your statement destiny , regardless of the sex someone is, we all have the right to be treated as equal
The ERA’s impact on society would bring the change that our society needs. The U.S. has had a consistent issue with bringing equality amongst its citizens and there is always a group subject to being discriminated against due to how they identify. This is the most diverse country with citizens from across the globe, so we must set an example for how a nation with equal rights is supposed to be. Women deserve just as much equality as men in their industry and should not be discriminated against or revoked of anything. Our society is gradually reaching a platform in which it won’t be male-dominated, but instead equally represented by everyone.
Hii Courtney,
Regarding the Equal Rights Amendment, I fully concur with your viewpoint (ERA). Various groups in our society continue to endure prejudice based on their sex, demonstrating the necessity for clear constitutional protection against this kind of discrimination. We must remember that the United States sets an example for equality because of its diverse population. The Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) can be a key tool in promoting the rights of women, as well as everyone else, to equal opportunity and treatment in all spheres of life. I agree with your optimistic outlook for a future in which prejudice is eliminated and representation is equal, and I find it heartening that our society is moving toward a more inclusive platform. By creating a distinct constitutional basis for gender equality, the ERA represents a major step towards realizing that goal.
The impact the passage of the equal rights Amendment can have on society is having equal pay all around and Gender equality. The arguments for the ERA is equal pay, gender equality, A change in the legal standard. The arguments against the ERA is that it may impact existing laws that have now or different changes legally.
I agree, that the ERA’s passage could advance societal goals of achieving universal equal pay and gender equality. Supporters emphasize these objectives and advocate for a change in the legal standard, while opponents express reservations, fearing potential disruptions to existing laws or unintended legal consequences.
The ERA addresses the absence of gender equality guarantees in the U.S. Constitution. Advocates argue that the ERA is essential for creating constitutional principles of gender equality, closing legal gaps, and protecting the nation’s commitment to equal rights. It would provide a stronger foundation for legal challenges and give women equal pay opportunities.
Enshrining gender equality in the US Constitution through the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) would have a significant social impact. Supporters contend that it would establish a solid legal framework for preventing discrimination based on gender, advancing equal opportunities, and building an inclusive community. The ERA aims to address persisting gender inequities in the workplace, in education, and in the judicial system by outlawing discrimination based solely on a person’s gender. The ERA’s supporters think that it would make women’s legal safeguards stronger and aid in the fight against discriminatory behaviors, resulting in a society that is more just and equal. Furthermore, the ERA may represent the country’s dedication to equality and have an impact on cultural perceptions and gender norms.
Nonetheless, there are defenses against the ERA’s ratification. Concerns regarding unforeseen effects, such as modifications to current laws and procedures about such like women’s rights, family law, and military duty, are voiced by some detractors. Concerns have also been raised about the ERA being used to attack laws intended to provide protection or meet the needs of people of different genders. Some opponents contend that the ERA is unneeded or could spark litigation that could challenge accepted legal norms since current legal frameworks adequately address gender equality concerns.
I feel like the equal rights amendment would have a hug impact on society because women are still treated as unequal till this day. Women are not paid as much as men in the work field and are getting lower wages so I feel like that would kind of fix that problem and women would paid equally. Maybe sexual harassment at work against women would also get taken more seriously too because there isn’t much done to men who harass they might lose their position but that’s about it. There are a lot of women who want to run for president or any kind of politicians and many people don’t agree with that or vote for them just because they are a female candidate I feel like having that in the constitution will also help a bit people do vote based off the amendments and the constitution. Also sexist laws are being passed by men like the abortion ban, and that can also help with that maybe that law wouldn’t had been approved if there was an equal right amendment.
Hey Sade, I like that you brought up how we have men in congress, passing laws about what a women should or should not do with their bodies. It absolutely makes no sense.
I had no idea that women are not mentioned in the U.S Constitution. If the ERA gets ratified it would impact the world greatly. It would impact the world greatly because finally women are getting acknowledged. The gender equality in certain jobs can finally balance out. Equal pay for women and men would also be impacted if the ERA gets ratified.
Hi, Antonio I agree with your statement it would be an incredible change for women’s history for women to finally get acknowledged and be equal.
If the Era was to be ratified, there would be a great amount of change to say the least. People who identify themselves as transgender or queer would finally have the protection they have been looking for in terms of being granted human rights to healthcare, education and other things that they have not been able to sometimes get due to discrimination. The ratification would also send a message about where the nation stands with them and shows that they are committed to the equality of all people.
There’s something called the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) that was first introduced in 1923 to fix this. However, it hasn’t been officially approved yet. Supporters say passing the ERA would make sure everyone is treated equally, regardless of gender. They believe it would strengthen the fight against gender-based discrimination. Opponents, on the other hand, worry about how the ERA might be interpreted and think it could lead to some unintended consequences. They also argue that existing laws already cover gender equality. So, the ERA’s passage could bring both positive changes and potential challenges, reflecting a bigger conversation in society about whether we need a constitutional amendment to guarantee gender equality.
If the Equal Rights Amendment were ratified it would mean a great amount of change for women. It would bring a stronger foundation for women rights it can mean that there can finally be gender equality.
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