http://newiprogressive.com/images/stories/S5/vote-47-milwaukee-mb4-s5.jpgWisconsin was one of the first states to ratify the federal Equal Rights Amendment in 1972, but does not yet have a state Equal Rights Amendment in its constitution.

MADISON, WI – The League of Women Voters of Wisconsin (LWVWI) celebrates the introduction of the Equal Rights Amendment to the Wisconsin Constitution on Monday, March 8, and believes it is essential to pass and ratify the amendment to progress toward a more just society.

“The League of Women Voters of Wisconsin strongly supports the passage and ratification of this amendment to the Wisconsin Constitution, and it is undeniable that women have made significant progress toward equality over the years,” said Debra Cronmiller, LWVWI executive director. “However, women continue to battle systematic discrimination in the form of unequal pay, workplace harassment, domestic violence and more, and tackling these issues require sustainable solutions.”

Wisconsin’s Equal Rights Amendment establishes equal rights on the basis of sex, gender identity, race, color, sexual orientation, disability, religion, national origin, marital status, family status, age, ancestry, or any other immutable characteristic. This amendment would enshrine in the Wisconsin Constitution the ability for any person or group to combat discrimination or disparate treatment by a public entity.

The federal Equal Rights Amendment passed through the U.S. House of Representatives on October 12, 1971, and through the U.S. Senate on March 22, 1972. While Wisconsin acted as one of the first states to ratify the federal Equal Rights Amendment, on April 26, 1972, Wisconsin does not yet have a state Equal Rights Amendment in its constitution.

The amendment was introduced by Sen. LaTonya Johnson and Sen. on Erpenbach, as well as Rep. Sara Rodriguez, Rep. Jodi Emerson, Rep. Lisa Subeck, Rep. Tip McGuire and Rep. Lee Snodgrass.

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The League of Women Voters of Wisconsin is a nonpartisan political organization that advocates for informed and active participation in government. There are 20 local Leagues throughout Wisconsin. More information at lwvwi.org.