By John Q. Hosedrinker 
A bipartisan group of House representatives urged President Biden to ratify the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) before leaving office, citing its importance in protecting rights regardless of sex. The letter highlights the ERA’s fulfillment of constitutional ratification requirements, despite past delays and rescissions by some states. Supporters argue the ERA’s ratification is crucial given the incoming administration’s stance on women’s and LGBTQIA+ rights. This action would solidify President Biden’s legacy and align with the strong public support for enshrining gender equality in the Constitution.
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One hundred and twenty House Democrats have issued a compelling plea to President Biden, urging him to take decisive action and ensure the ratification of the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) before his term concludes. This call for action highlights the ongoing debate surrounding this landmark amendment and its potential impact on the future of gender equality in the United States.
The urgency behind this request stems from a belief that the ERA’s ratification is not only possible but also critically important. Supporters argue that the amendment’s enshrinement in the Constitution would provide crucial legal protections, solidifying equal rights for all individuals irrespective of sex.
However, significant hurdles remain. The question of whether the ERA has already been ratified, given the passage of time and various legal challenges, remains a contentious point. Some contend that deadlines set for ratification have expired and that subsequent ratifications are therefore invalid. Others argue that these deadlines are unenforceable, pointing to past instances where Congress has ratified amendments well after the initial proposed deadlines. This dispute points to a deeper legal issue regarding the constitutionality of time limits placed on the ratification of amendments.
Further complicating matters are the legal opinions that challenge the validity of states rescinding their earlier ratifications, with some arguing that such actions are unconstitutional. These differing interpretations of the Constitution’s rules, and the legal precedents involved, raise doubts as to whether any legal action will successfully ratify the ERA. The complexity underscores the significant legal obstacles which stand between the ERA and its adoption as a constitutional amendment.
A significant aspect of the ongoing debate centers on the role President Biden can, or should, play in this process. Some believe the President has the power to direct the National Archives to officially publish the ERA, thus making it part of the Constitution. Others argue his involvement is limited, and that the process lies solely within the purview of Congress and the judiciary. The President’s actions, or inaction, on this matter would certainly have implications for its final resolution.
The letter from the House Democrats reflects a concerted effort to push the matter forward despite the existing legal and political complexities. It represents a significant show of support for the ERA, demonstrating that this issue remains a key political priority for a substantial segment of the Democratic party. The letter’s clear call to action suggests that a considerable number of people within the Democratic party hope to resolve this long standing debate before the next Presidential term.
However, the political landscape surrounding the ERA is fraught with challenges. The Supreme Court’s current conservative leanings raise serious concerns about the likelihood of a favorable ruling should the matter reach the highest court. Further complicating matters are the many diverse opinions of lawmakers regarding the ERA’s necessity and the effectiveness of its legal language. Some critics even argue the ERA’s language is outdated and fails to adequately address modern concepts of gender identity.
The debate over the ERA serves as a reflection of the larger political divisions within the country. It underscores the ongoing struggle for gender equality and highlights the challenges of navigating the intricacies of constitutional amendments in a highly polarized political environment. The Democrats’ efforts to move the ERA forward reflect their commitment to this issue and their willingness to push it forward despite the legal and political risks involved.
The 120 House Democrats’ decision to directly appeal to President Biden underscores the importance of their initiative. They are attempting to force a decision on this long debated issue before the next Presidential term begins. Their efforts to place the ERA into law demonstrate their determination and commitment to this cause.
In conclusion, the call from 120 House Democrats for President Biden to act on the Equal Rights Amendment represents a significant development in the ongoing saga surrounding this decades-long debate. The action showcases a sustained commitment to gender equality, yet simultaneously highlights the complicated legal and political barriers standing in the way of this long sought amendment becoming a part of the US Constitution. Ultimately, the success or failure of this initiative rests not only on the president’s decision but on the ongoing legal challenges and the complex political climate surrounding the ERA itself.