Meaning: The quote you have provided reflects the sentiment of Sonia Johnson, an American feminist and political activist who is known for her advocacy for women's rights and the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA). Johnson's statement expresses her admiration for the name of the amendment and her surprise that the church was opposing something with such a positive and inclusive name. This quote sheds light on the complexities surrounding the ERA and the opposition it faced from various sectors of society, including religious institutions.

The Equal Rights Amendment was a proposed amendment to the United States Constitution that aimed to guarantee equal rights under the law regardless of sex. The amendment was first introduced in 1923 by Alice Paul, a leading figure in the women's suffrage movement. After several decades of advocacy and activism, the ERA was passed by Congress in 1972 and subsequently sent to the states for ratification. However, it fell short of the required number of state ratifications and ultimately failed to become part of the Constitution.

Sonia Johnson's involvement in the ERA movement was significant, and her quote reflects the emotional and ideological investment she had in the cause. Johnson's uneasiness about the church's opposition to the ERA highlights the intersection of feminism, religion, and social activism. As a devout Mormon, Johnson's advocacy for the ERA put her at odds with the leadership of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, leading to her excommunication from the church in 1979.

In her quote, Johnson's focus on the name of the amendment, "Equal Rights Amendment," underscores the power of language and symbolism in shaping public perception and discourse. The name itself conveys the principle of equality and fairness, which resonated with many supporters of the ERA. However, the opposition to the ERA, especially from conservative religious groups, framed the amendment as a threat to traditional gender roles and family values, leading to a contentious and polarized debate.

The church's opposition to the ERA was rooted in its concerns about the potential impact of the amendment on family dynamics, gender roles, and religious freedom. Some religious leaders viewed the ERA as undermining the traditional family structure and promoting values that conflicted with their religious teachings. This opposition from religious institutions, including the Mormon church, contributed to the broader societal and political struggle surrounding the ERA's ratification.

Sonia Johnson's experience as a vocal proponent of the ERA within the context of her faith community exemplifies the inherent tensions between feminist activism and religious conservatism. Her quote encapsulates the emotional conflict and disappointment she felt when encountering opposition from the church despite her belief in the inclusive and positive ideals represented by the ERA's name.

In conclusion, Sonia Johnson's quote about the Equal Rights Amendment reflects the complexities of the ERA movement, the challenges faced by feminist activists, and the intersection of gender equality and religious beliefs. Her words serve as a reminder of the power of language and the clash of ideologies in the pursuit of equal rights for women. The ERA continues to be a symbol of the ongoing struggle for gender equality and serves as a catalyst for discussions about the intersection of feminism, religion, and social change.