The Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) was a proposed amendment in 1923 that would prohibit sex discrimination. It would guarantee equal legal rights for all American citizens regardless of sex, ending legal distinctions between men and women in matters of property, employment, etc. However, opponents argued it would remove protections that women needed.
The ERA continued to gain attention throughout the 20th century and was passed by the Senate in 1950 and 1953 with a provision known as “the Hayden rider,” an added clause that would keep special protections for women. However, it would continue to be disputed by the House. Over several decades, presidential administrations voiced their opinions on the amendment with it partially committed to legislation with the Civil Rights Act of 1964.