Trump takes office again on January 20. For those of us working to advance gender equality and intersecting issues, where do we collectively go from here? What do we need to focus on?
President Biden's parting declaration that the Equal Rights Amendment is “the law of the land” should give encouragement to those who have waged a century-plus war for equality. His recognition that all requirements for amending the Constitution have been met (agreeing with activists, constitutional scholars and the American Bar Association) means that we wage this war with better ammunition. It is still an argument that will go up to the Supreme Court where we will demand closure—and full rights for people—no matter their sex. During this time when our LGBTQ family and friends are increasingly targeted, as reproductive freedoms are increasingly restricted, we need to organize under the protective umbrella of the ERA.
How do we make progress during this time? Are there new strategies we should be adopting in terms of organizing and coalition building?
The partnerships that we have built in the ERA Coalition continue to strengthen—over 300 major national and local organizations have come to the table to share their strategies, essential funding, and powerful voices. We are not defeated, nor despairing. We are encouraged by organizations like Win With Black Women (a partner) that still can bring 5,000 Black women to a call on Sunday nights, fundraise for urgent causes, and defend Black women in the political sphere. And this is post-election, post-Harris crushing loss.
What is your call to action?
Get engaged with any social problems that resonate with you—poverty, maternal health, the climate, education, cultural programs—they will all need more private support over the next few years. And it is not just about writing a check—your personal, visible involvement is essential.
Portions of this interview appeared at ForbesWomen and Women’s Media Center.