exploring the pro- and anti-era movements
This lesson is suitable for high school and introductory-level college courses.
In this activity, students will explore the various arguments both for and against the Equal Rights Amendment, with the aim of gaining a deeper understanding of the reasons why some women were opposed to the idea of achieving gender equality. Thoughtful consideration of different perspectives allows students to develop critical thinking skills and broaden their knowledge of the women’s liberation movement.
Analyzing primary sources
Additional documents can be found in the Fighting For and Against the Equal Rights Amendment collection.
Catholics and the Equal Rights Amendment pamphlet
Circa 1970s
How do the objectives of the ERA align with the mission and goals of the Catholic Church? What are the primary arguments in support of the legislation?
Who are the groups and individuals featured in the document?
Does the document contest any claims presented by anti-ERA activists and organizations? If so, what claims and how? This question is best asked after students have reviewed all relevant materials.
NOW ERA pamphlet
Circa 1970s
What are the primary benefits of the ERA for women, according to NOW? What social inequalities would the ERA eliminate?
How does the document engage with the arguments made in the Anti-ERA campaign literature?
The Schlafly Report
April 1973
After reviewing the documents in support of the ERA, give the students time to skim over the newsletter before gathering for group discussion.
Who are the primary organizations and individuals speaking out against the ERA?
What issues are of most importance to ERA opponents?
Do you find the arguments convincing? Why or why not?
Anti-ERA campaign pamphlet
Circa 1970s
Compare this pamphlet to the NOW campaign literature linked above.
Who were the primary organizations and individuals opposed to the ERA? Can you speculate as to why these groups held that position?
Having reviewed the NOW pamphlet, does this document change your personal perspective on the ERA? Why or why not?
feminism and its discontents 