The Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) is a proposed amendment to the U.S. Constitution. It is designed to guarantee equal legal rights for all American citizens, regardless of sex.

If the ERA were in the U.S. Constitution, it would influence the legal tone and decisions regarding gender equal rights, positively influencing discrimination cases brought forth over time. The ERA is needed to constitutionally ensure that the foundations and freedoms of our democracy apply equally to all genders. It reads: "Equality of rights under the law shall not be abridged by the United States or by any State on account of sex."

The ERA was passed by Congress in 1972 and sent to the states for ratification. In order to be added to the Constitution, it needs approval by three-fourths (38) of the 50 states.

Thirty-seven states have ratified. We only need one more state!

Ratification failed by one vote in Virginia earlier this year. We must urge Virginia legislators to pass ratification. Discrimination is not up for debate.