2026-2027 BPW/MICHIGAN LEGISLATIVE PLATFORM AND ADVOCACY PRIORITIES
PREAMBLE
The Equal Rights Amendment, as authored by Alice Paul, is the priority above all other issues that may appear on this advocacy platform until equal rights for women and men becomes guaranteed in the United States Constitution. The Equal Rights Amendment:
“Equality of rights under the law shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any state on account of sex.”
ADVOCACY PRIORITIES
Economic Equity and Justice
- Demand that all federal state and local governments recognize the protections of the ERA as the 28th Amendment—as ratified by 38 states and Congress.
- Support access to pay equity, retirement equity, and financial stability
- Support access to educational opportunity
- Support access to equal opportunities in the workplace and corporate boards
Human Rights
- Support the eradication of domestic violence, gun violence and human trafficking
- Oppose discrimination based on sexual orientation in all areas including marriage, housing, child custody and employment
- Support civil & human rights of all immigrants, including a sensible path to legal status
Health
- Support the constitutional right for all people to make the best healthcare decisions for themselves, their families and their future without governmental interference
- Support the development of health care research policies that recognize the special health care needs of women
- Support expansion of mental health coverage and services
Adopted at BPW/Michigan State Convention – 5/2/2026