SC Alaska News

U.S. Senator Lisa Murkowski, along with a group of bipartisan lawmakers, has reintroduced a resolution aimed at removing the deadline for the ratification of the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA). This legislative move seeks to make the ERA the 28th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, ensuring that discrimination based on sex is prohibited.

Senator Murkowski expressed her ongoing commitment to this cause by stating, “The state of Alaska ratified the ERA and amended the State Constitution in 1972, and that is a legacy I am proud to continue advocating for at the federal level.” She emphasized the importance of guaranteeing equal rights for women in the United States Constitution.

Senator Mazie Hirono highlighted Hawaii's historical role in ratifying the ERA and reiterated her dedication to gender equality: “With the reintroduction of this resolution, we reaffirm our commitment to fighting for equal opportunity and equal rights for all.”

Representative Ayanna Pressley addressed broader social issues related to gender inequality: “By enshrining the ERA into law, we are taking the necessary step to center our most vulnerable and marginalized communities.”

Congresswoman Madeleine Dean pointed out the significance of explicitly stating equality in legal terms: “Words matter—and we must be explicit in our Constitution to ensure that equality is a reality for every person in our nation.”

Congresswoman Sylvia Garcia reflected on her personal history with women's rights advocacy: "I’ve kept [the ERA pin] all these years because the fight isn’t over."

Congresswoman Sydney Kamlager-Dove argued against arbitrary deadlines hindering progress: “An arbitrary deadline will not stop progress on equal rights.”

Representative Jennifer McClellan shared her experience leading Virginia's efforts towards ratification: "Now, we must finish the job by enshrining gender equality in the Constitution once and for all."

Zakiya Thomas from ERA Coalition acknowledged historical struggles while praising current leadership efforts: "We are grateful for...reintroducing this important resolution."

The resolution aims to address an obstacle set when Congress initially passed it in 1972 with a deadline later extended to 1982. The required number of states ratified it by 2020. Senator Murkowski has consistently supported this resolution since its introduction during the 112th Congress.