WHEREAS:

The Equal Rights Amendment states, in full: Equality of rights under the law shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any state on account of sex. The congress shall have the power to enforce, by appropriate legislation, the provisions of this article. This amendment will take effect two years after the date of ratification.

WHEREAS:

The Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) is the cornerstone of economic equity for American women. It will provide a durable and comprehensive guarantee of equal status and dignity under the law. Federal and state laws aimed at eliminating various forms of discrimination have proven to be inadequate. They have loopholes, are inadequately enforced and can be easily repealed. Under the present patchwork of laws, regulations and court decisions, women still suffer from sex discrimination in many areas including pay, hiring, promotion, insurance, pensions, educational opportunity and inheritance. The ERA is needed to require the foundation for true equality; and

WHEREAS:

Although the majority of Americans, male and female, support the ERA, a small minority of the U.S. Congress thwarted passage of the ERA in 1983.

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED:

That AFSCME continue its vigorous and longstanding support for passage of an unamended Equal Rights Amendment and urges all local affiliates to include support of an unamended ERA as a key issue in their screening process for U.S. Senate and House candidates, as well as candidates for State Legislative seats.

SUBMITTED BY:

International Executive Board

Marion Porro, President and Delegate
Local 1930, Council 37
New York, New York