Texas Congressman Brandon Gill, the youngest House Republican, prompted a moment of silence from Massachusetts Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley during a congressional hearing on diversity, equity, and inclusion, by questioning the definition of a "woman" in relation to her resolution to advance the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA).
Pressley has introduced a resolution that seeks to remove the deadline for the ERA, an amendment proposed in the 1970s to constitutionally guarantee equal legal rights for all American citizens regardless of sex. While a majority of states ratified the ERA decades ago, it fell short of the required 75 percent before a congressional deadline expired. Pressley's resolution argues that subsequent state ratifications should make the amendment binding.
During the hearing, Pressley noted that all House Democrats had co-sponsored her bill and stated she was awaiting Republican support. Gill then asked if Pressley's ERA proposal defined what a woman is. Pressley paused for several seconds before responding, "I look forward to your signing on," and did not directly answer the question.
Gill responded with a grin, "We'll take a look at it," adding he was seeking "clarity." The exchange occurred Tuesday, and no vote was taken on Pressley's amendment. It remains uncertain if the resolution will advance in the Republican-controlled House.
Conservative opposition to the ERA has often centered on fears that its language could be interpreted to allow individual gender identity to define legal sex. This, opponents argue, could potentially impact issues such as access to women's bathrooms and participation in women's sports. Inez Feltscher Stepman, a policy and legal analyst for Independent Women, testified at the hearing, describing Pressley's proposed amendment as "very radical." Stepman expressed concern that the ERA could eliminate legal distinctions between men and women, arguing that some laws already recognize biological differences and provide protections that could be threatened. She cited potential impacts on woman-specific health insurance and maternity leave programs.
Some existing federal laws, including Title VII and Title IX of the Civil Rights Act, along with the Equal Pay Act, already prohibit certain forms of sex discrimination. Pressley, a member of the progressive "Squad" in the House, has argued that women continue to face discrimination, citing the gender wage gap and what she termed the GOP's "anti-woman" anti-DEI agenda.
Gill has previously drawn attention for his questioning style in congressional hearings. In April, he engaged in a notable exchange with Democratic Representative Shri Thanedar regarding abortion procedures. He has also faced accusations of racism, which he has characterized as a political tactic.