Title IX is a federal law that is meant to protect people from discrimination based on sex. It was originally passed in 1972 but has undergone many updates over the years. Among other provisions, the law now requires colleges and universities to have a Title IX coordinator on campus who can work with students and faculty about issues of sexual harassment, assault, or abuse. It also includes a clause that allows students to pursue action against an institution if it does not sufficiently react to reports of sexual violence on campus as well.
Below we have attempted to answer some of the most common Title IX FAQs.
- What is Title IX?
Title IX is a law passed in 1972 and intended to eliminate discrimination based on sex in any federally funded education program or activity. It was meant to address problems like sexual harassment and assault on campus, as well as gender inequities that existed in college athletics.
- What is the need for a Title IX Coordinator?
The Title IX Coordinator is a very important position in helping to address gender-based discrimination on campus. In fact, the ideal candidate for a Title IX Coordinator will have the ability to work proactively and reactively, as well as have an understanding of the campus climate and be able to offer support to students who experience sexual violence or harassment. Having someone in this position makes it much easier for students to come forward with their experiences without fear of retribution or retaliation.
- Who is protected by Title IX?
While Title IX was originally primarily meant to protect students from gender-based discrimination in campus life, it now protects the rights of visitors, faculty, and staff as well. This means that people who are associated with a college or university may also be eligible for legal recourse if they have been subjected to discrimination based on sex.
- What conduct is prohibited by Title IX?
Title IX prohibits discriminatory acts that occur based on gender, including sexual harassment and assault. If these incidents are reported to school officials, the survivors need to be treated with the utmost fairness and dignity. However, in many cases, students may not feel comfortable coming forward initially. For that reason, colleges and universities need to provide timely responses and follow up on reports of sexual violence and harassment.
