On January 17, 2025, President Joe Biden officially declared the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) as the 28th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, marking a significant milestone in the ongoing fight for gender equality [56a5e028]. This amendment affirms equal rights under the law regardless of sex, aligning the United States with 168 other nations that recognize gender equality [56a5e028].
The announcement was made during a ceremony that coincided with Martin Luther King Jr. Day, reflecting on the enduring struggle for equality across various demographics [56a5e028]. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand led a group of 46 senators in support of the ERA, highlighting the bipartisan effort behind this historic legislation [56a5e028].
The journey to this momentous occasion began with Nevada's ratification in 2017, sponsored by State Senator Pat Spearman, which made it the 36th state to support the amendment. Virginia's ratification in January 2020 brought the total to the required 38 states, paving the way for the ERA's official affirmation [56a5e028].
Advocates for the ERA, such as Kati Hornung and Rachel Payne, emphasized its global significance and its potential to bolster women's and LGBTQIA+ rights in the United States [56a5e028]. Kristin Hull also noted the economic benefits that could arise from the ERA, suggesting that gender equality could lead to a more robust economy [56a5e028].
This historic affirmation is not just a legal victory; it represents a broader commitment to civil rights and equality for all individuals, regardless of gender, and sets a precedent for future advocacy efforts [56a5e028].