Written by Jason Zuk, The Social Psychic*
Growing up in the late 20th century provided a unique backdrop for many of us. For some, it was not just a time of struggles but also a remarkable journey of resilience and recognizing the significant strength of women. In an era where many men still cling to outdated beliefs about women's roles, it’s crucial to pause and understand how we can embrace a more progressive mindset.
A Legacy of Strong Women
Looking back on my upbringing, I am grateful to have been influenced by strong women who molded my beliefs and values. My mother was a committed special education teacher in Paterson, New Jersey, for 27 years and she faced financial difficulties as a single parent during my formative years. Despite these challenges, her steadfast love laid a firm foundation for my future. Moreover, my grandparents were crucial, consistently stepping in to support us financially in certain ways throughout the years.
This exposure to formidable figures instilled in me a deep respect for women. It's difficult to comprehend that in the 21st century, some men still attempt to downplay women’s rights or think that the fight for equality has ended. For instance, a 2021 survey revealed that 42% of women in the U.S. still face workplace discrimination, highlighting that the outdated mindset must be challenged constantly.
The Unwavering Fight for Equality
At my core, I believe that women and men are equal. This isn’t just rhetoric; it's a deeply ingrained truth I carry with me. The issue of gender equality should not be a topic for debate—spiritually, socially, or politically. Women have fought tirelessly for rights that should have always been theirs.
For instance, the fight for voting rights culminated in the 19th Amendment in 1920, yet many women today still face barriers in accessing their rights. In recent years, multiple states have introduced laws making it more difficult for women to access reproductive healthcare. It's alarming to see these rights rolled back, especially as reports indicate that over 60% of Americans support reproductive rights.
When men bully women into submission, it directly undermines the equality we have worked hard to achieve. If we truly value the women in our lives—mothers, friends, partners, and colleagues—we must stand against disrespect or inequality. Real men uplift women, celebrate their achievements, and advocate for their right to be treated with dignity.
The Role of Men in Supporting Women
It's time for men to reflect on their preconceived notions about gender roles. Real masculinity is rooted in honor and respect for all individuals, not dominance.
Supporting women involves listening to their experiences and recognizing the privilege that can come with being male. Instead of dominating conversations, men should incorporate women's voices in discussions, whether in the workplace or personal relationships. By actively championing gender equality, we strengthen the fabric of our society.
Men should also remember that female counterparts are individuals with dreams, aspirations, and rights. When we overlook women's contributions, we miss out on valuable perspectives. For example, a McKinsey & Company report found that companies with more women in decision-making roles significantly outperform their peers in profitability and value.
Can the ERA Can Light the Way?
The passage of the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) represents a significant milestone in the ongoing struggle for gender equality in the United States. Initially proposed in 1923 by suffragist Alice Paul, the amendment sought to ensure that rights under the law would not be denied or abridged on account of sex. The language of the ERA is straightforward and powerful, stating: "Equality of rights under the law shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any State on account of sex." This succinct formulation encapsulates the fundamental goal of the amendment: to provide a constitutional guarantee of equal rights for all individuals, regardless of their gender. The journey of the ERA has been marked by both fervent support and considerable opposition. It gained significant traction during the 1970s, a period characterized by heightened activism for women's rights and broader social justice movements.
The National Organization for Women (NOW) and many other advocacy groups mobilized to promote the amendment, emphasizing that legal protections for women were essential to achieving genuine equality in all spheres of life, including employment, education, and family law. Despite its initial momentum, the ERA faced challenges as it moved through the legislative process. In 1972, the amendment was passed by Congress and sent to the states for ratification, with a deadline set for 1979. However, the ensuing years saw a backlash against the feminist movement, epitomized by the rise of conservative figures such as Phyllis Schlafly, who argued that the ERA would undermine traditional family structures and lead to unintended consequences, such as women being drafted into military service. As a result of this opposition, the ratification process slowed significantly.
While 35 states ratified the amendment by the original deadline, three states fell short of the necessary 38 for it to become part of the Constitution. In the decades that followed, various efforts were made to revive the ERA, including extensions of the ratification deadline and the introduction of new state-level campaigns. In recent years, there has been a renewed interest in the ERA, driven by the contemporary discourse surrounding gender equality and women's rights. Advocates argue that the amendment is more relevant than ever, as issues such as pay equity, reproductive rights, and protection against gender-based violence continue to dominate national conversations.
In 2020, Virginia became the 38th state to ratify the ERA, reigniting debates about its legal status and the possibility of its inclusion in the Constitution. The passage of the Equal Rights Amendment remains a pivotal goal for many activists and organizations dedicated to ensuring that gender equality is enshrined in the highest law of the land. The ongoing discussions surrounding the ERA reflect broader societal shifts toward recognizing and addressing systemic inequalities, making it a crucial element in the pursuit of justice and equality for all. As the movement continues to evolve, the ERA stands as a testament to the enduring struggle for equal rights and the commitment to achieving a more equitable society.
Educating Future Generations
To change the narrative around women's rights, we must start with education. Parents today need to make sure their children understand the importance of treating everyone with equal respect, regardless of gender.
Through my upbringing, I learned invaluable lessons about acknowledging women's contributions. When children observe their parents standing up for equality, they are more likely to adopt these values. Schools must also emphasize discussions about gender equality. When women’s history, achievements, and struggles are integrated into the curriculum, we raise a generation that sees and respects women as equals.
A Call to Action for Change
In a world where outdated thinking persists, each of us has a responsibility to advocate for women's rights. Being raised by strong women has given me a perspective that champions equality for all.
As we navigate a complex society, let's remember the lessons taught by our mothers, sisters, and grandmothers: respect and equality are non-negotiable. Every act of standing up for women is a step toward a brighter, more equitable future.
Authentic men understand that genuine strength is found in uplifting sisters, girlfriends, friends, and colleagues. Let's build a world where respecting women is standard and celebrate all the strong women who have inspired us and will keep inspiring us in the future. Remember, the future of effective leadership in our society depends on women being actively engaged in every aspect.