Gerald Rudolph Ford

“ We must also strengthen and support laws that prohibit discrimination based on sex.
Now, Therefore, I, Gerald R. Ford, President of the United States of America, do hereby call upon all Americans to observe August 26, 1974, as Women's Equality Day, with appropriate ceremonies and activities. I further urge Americans to consider the essential role of women in our society and their contribution to our economic, social and political well-being. As a Republic dedicated to liberty and justice for all, this Nation cannot deny equal status to women. ”

“ Today, fifty-four years later, the women of America are actively participating in and contributing to all aspects of our economic, social and political life. Many obstacles on the road to equal opportunity have been removed as legislative and executive actions have helped to reduce sex discrimination in education, training and employment. ”

“ Special efforts have been made in the Federal Government, so that women now contribute more fully than ever before to the formulation and execution of public policy.
But although we as a Nation have come a great distance since 1920, we still have a great distance to go. ”