Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 (20 U.S.C. § 1681) is an all-encompassing federal law that prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex in education programs and activities receiving federal financial assistance. Although Title IX is often associated with equal opportunity in athletics programs, the law is much broader and includes discrimination on the basis of gender, sexual harassment and sexual assault.
"No person in the United States shall, on the basis of sex, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any education program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance..." 20 U.S.C. § 1681
The Title IX Office is responsible for informing students and employees of their rights and options if they feel they have experienced:
- sexual discrimination,
- sexual harassment,
- dating violence,
- stalking, or
- other related offenses that fall under the definition of sexual misconduct.
In addition to Title IX reporting and investigations, the office can assist with:
- pregnancy accommodations,
- referrals for support services,
- assist students with creating a safety plan,
- as well as providing campus wide education on Title IX topics.
Differentiating between Title IX and Title VI
Title VI and Title IX are both federal civil rights laws that say schools receiving federal money can’t discriminate, but they protect against different kinds of discrimination. Title VI, passed in 1964, bans discrimination based on race, color, or national origin in any program that gets federal funding.
Title IX, passed in 1972, bans discrimination based on sex in education programs and activities that get federal funding, which is why it’s tied to things like equal access to sports, protection from sexual harassment, and fair treatment of pregnant and parenting students.
To report an incident, fill out this form to the best of your abilities:
