Essential Estrogen

This afternoon, a very historic event took place in the Russell Senate Office Building. U.S. Senators Ted Kennedy and Barbara Boxer joined with U.S. Representatives Carolyn Maloney, John Dingell, Lynn Woolsey and Jerrold Nadler to announce the reintroduction of the Women's Equality Amendment. The group of legislators were joined by Ellie Smeal, President of the Feminist Majority and strong leader on the fight for women's equality.

Originally introduced in 1923, the ERA passed Congress in 1972, but fell three states short of ratification. Of course, Concerned Women for America (not to be confused with women who are actually concerned for women) have already come out swinging.

(Historical Note of Interest: Sen. Kennedy and Rep. Maloney introduced ERA bills in the 108th Congress (2003-04) -- SJ Res 11 and HJ Res 37, respectively.)

For those who either never knew or have forgotten:

Section 1. Equality of rights under the law shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any state on account of sex.

Section 2. The Congress shall have the power to enforce, by appropriate legislation, the provisions of this article.

Section 3. This amendment shall take effect two years after the date of ratification.