In response to the position of the LDS Church that it still opposes the Equal Rights Amendment, I decided to drag out my letter that was published by The Salt Lake Tribune in 1977 and see if, or how much, society has changed since then. I remember I was so angered by LDS men with bull horns taking over the conference regarding the amendment, I wanted to leave the state of Utah. After thinking it over, however, I sublimated by writing the following letter to the editor.
“The solution to the differences between the pro and anti-ERA forces is so simple I’m surprised no one has thought of it. To ensure one faction does not impose its point of view on the other, the following rules can apply:
1. Pro-ERA women will receive equal pay for equal work. The antis shall agree to accept substandard wages lest they compete with some male.
2. Liberated women will have quality child care provisions. The antis shall elect public assistance should they become divorced or widowed rather than leave their homes.
3. Liberal-minded women will make their own decisions regarding abortion and birth control while the antis shall waive this right in order to bring forth as many souls as God shall provide.
4. Pro-ERA women will make major decisions jointly with their husbands. Antis shall submit to the will of their husbands — or use ‘fascinating womanhood’ techniques to manipulate their spouses.
Under these rules, equality will not be forced upon those not ready for it. While the liberated woman is languishing under the tyranny of free choice, adequate wages and quality child care, the anti-ERA woman will remain on her pedestal of compulsory pregnancy, helplessness and subservience.”
In 1977, as many women as men were against the ERA amendment. Obviously that has changed. Most women want equal pay for equal work and quality child care. Also, I’m not sure young women have even heard of “fascinating womanhood.” Unfortunately women are losing ground on the abortion issue.
Sandra Arritola Williams, Millcreek
