People and Events on March 22, 1972

Elvis Stojko

54 Years Old

A three-time World Champion and two-time Olympic silver medalist, known for his technical prowess and artistic expression on the ice. He's also a popular sportscaster, sharing his ...

Shawn Bradley

54 Years Old

A 7-foot-6 center who played in the NBA from 1993 to 2005, known for his shot-blocking ability and starring in a documentary about his basketball career.

Cory Lidle

Died in 2006, aged 34

Professional baseball pitcher who played for several teams, including the New York Yankees, and tragically died in a plane crash at age 34.

All Birthdays on March 22

A Date of Liberation: Unshackling Equality and Contraceptive Freedom

March 22nd, 1972, is a day etched in history as a beacon of progress, marking significant milestones in the pursuit of equality and reproductive freedom. On this day, two landmark events took place, setting in motion a trajectory of change that would reverberate for generations to come.

Equal Rights Amendment: A Step Towards Gender Parity

In a groundbreaking move, the United States Congress approved the historic Equal Rights Amendment (ERA), paving the way for its ratification by the states. This pivotal moment in the fight for women's rights aimed to ensure that "equality of rights under the law shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any State on account of sex." The amendment's passage marked a crucial step towards bridging the gender gap, sparking widespread celebration and hope for a more equitable future.

Battling for Contraceptive Rights

In another significant development, unmarried individuals were granted the right to access contraceptives, a decision that would have far-reaching implications for reproductive freedom. This ruling not only acknowledged the importance of family planning but also underscored the autonomy of individuals in making choices about their bodies and lives.

Celebrating Visionary Birthdays

This remarkable day also witnessed the arrival of three exceptional individuals who would go on to leave an indelible mark on their respective fields:

As we reflect on this transformative day, we honor the courage and perseverance of those who paved the way for a more just and equitable society. March 22nd, 1972, stands as a testament to the power of collective action, reminding us that even the smallest steps towards progress can have a profound impact on shaping our shared humanity.

In the words of Margaret Mead, "Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has."

Noteworthy Events on this Day:
54 years ago
Congress Sends Historic Equal Rights Amendment to States (United States Capitol, Washington D.C., 20016, USA) 1972
The United States Congress took a monumental step towards gender equality on this day, finally passing the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) after nearly 50 years of advocacy! The amendment, which promises "Equality of rights under the law shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any State on account of sex," was sent to states for ratification, sparking hope for a future where women's rights are fully recognized.
54 years ago
Unmarried individuals granted contraceptive rights (Supreme Court of the United States, Washington D.C., 20543, USA) 1972
The landmark Supreme Court case Eisenstadt v. Baird marked a revolutionary milestone in the fight for reproductive freedom. William Baird, an activist, was arrested in 1967 for giving a vase filled with condoms to a young unmarried woman at a Boston lecture. His attorney, Bill Baird, challenged the Massachusetts law prohibiting the distribution of contraceptives to unmarried persons. In a 6-1 decision, the Supreme Court ruled that unmarried individuals have the right to possess contraceptives, striking down the discriminatory law. This verdict effectively extended the privacy rights established in Griswold v. Connecticut to unmarried individuals, further cementing the fundamental right to reproductive autonomy.