The conventional view holds that adding sex protection to Title VII of the Civil Rights Act was an accident—a 'killer amendment' rejected by civil rights opponents.
➡️ Revisiting Title VII's 1964 Amendment
Contrary evidence reveals this as a misconception. Analysis shows Republican-southern Democrat coalitions genuinely supported the sex amendment, aligning with broader Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) advocacy in the mid-20th century.
➡️ Motivations for Support
Direct concern about women's workplace rights was a key driver, not merely instrumental benefits related to labor markets. Proponents preferred the CRA with the sex amendment over one without it.
➡️ Cautions in Interpretation
The study cautions against equating support for specific employment protections with broader women's rights endorsement. This nuanced understanding requires careful consideration.
