Federal Laws Protecting Women
By: Bevin Adams and Chasta Hamilton
Recently, there has been heightened conversation surrounding federal laws that are designed to protect women and their rights.
Understanding your local, state, and federal government’s positioning is important.
When a federal law/ ruling is created, it supersedes state and local legislation.
When a federal law/ ruling is overturned, the government reverts back to the state’s rights.
We’ve compiled some important examples of federal legislature below.
We encourage you to familiarize yourself with each of the following acts.
Civil Rights:
Civil Rights Acts of 1964
19th Amendment
Equal Rights Amendment
Workplace:
Fair Labor Standards Act
The Pregnancy Discrimination Act of 1978
Equal Pay Act of 1963
The Whistleblower Protection Act
Violence:
Violence Against Women Act
The Family Violence Prevention and Services Act
Healthcare:
Women’s Health Protection Act
The Family and Medical Leave Act
As a nation, even though there is still work to do, we have made progress. Women’s rights and equality are not inherent, and the work must continue.
The laws above prove that change is possible.
We can be protected under the law.
Our civic understanding is critical in creating a more equitable world.