I'm doing my term paper on the ERA (history, ratification, pros/cons). Unfortunately I'm having difficulty locating good, informative resources on the pros and cons. From what I have read so far, I would support the ERA. However, I think it is always best to know as much as possible about both sides. Please direct me to books, articles, etc...which can aid me in learning about the ERA. Thanks in advance. - A. Dave

Thanks for your note to FEMINIST.COM. The ERA--should it ever be passed would read something like "Equality of Rights under the law shall not be denied or abridged by the US or by any State on account of sex." It was orginally drafted by Alice Paul in 1923. The basic argument for it is that it would guarantee equality under law. Those who argue against it--are basically arguing against women's autonomy and independence. Their main points include: bathrooms would be integrated, as would the military. I don't really care about the former and I personally don't care about the latter, but I support those who do want to have this available to them.

The main groups to oppose it are: The Eagle Forum (under the leadership of Phyllis Shafley) and Concerned Women for American (under the leadership of Beverly LaHaye). Those who support it are numerous--NOW, The Feminist Majority, the National Women's Political Caucus. Any women's history book can fill you in on the details and point to other specifics.

—Amy