Obviously, you don't know the history here.
The way I understand it, the women were not allowed in the U.S. Open based on an agreement between Barry and the WPBA. It was the WPBA that did not want the ladies playing in Barry's Open. They wanted to have their own WPBA U.S. Open. I'm sure someone will correct me if this is wrong but this is what I have read several times.
IMHO, women playing in the U.S Open is long overdue and I'm am very happy to see it happening. Whatever the real reasons for the split were, I'm and thrilled that Barry and the WPBA have come to their senses and the women will be allowed to play this year and hopefully for all the years to come.
You also have to remember Barry did at one time run a US Open for Women as well.