Nation: An ERA Defeat

Can the fight go on ?

Past fights in Illinois over the Equal Rights Amendment have been bareknuckle contests, with anti-ERA legislators complaining about "braless, brainless broads." In contrast, last week's debate in the state's house of representatives was a civilized affair. The battle seemed to be over; proponents thought they had the votes to win. Republican Governor James Thompson had been lobbying for support. So too had the powerful Cook County Democratic machine. Thus some 400 spectators, including the Governor's wife, who wore a pro-ERA button, were in an optimistic mood as they crowded into the gallery.

But when the red and...

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