Title IX is a federal civil rights law that is part of the Education Amendments, of 1972. It clearly prohibits sexual discrimination in educational institutions that are receiving federal funding. Sexual discrimination may include harassment, sexual assault, stalking, violence, etc. According to an education lawyer for Title IX, under this provision, educational institutions are required to take appropriate measures against the culprits. If they fail to do so, the school or the college may lose its federal funding.
Importance
- Title IX aims to protect students, faculty members, staff, visitors, etc. from sexual discrimination.
- Even it applies to public and private elementary schools, district schools, and secondary schools.
- Title IX law applies and protects students based on their gender identity and sexual orientation. Hence, those students who identify themselves as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, etc. are also covered under the protection of Title IX.
Scope
The law applies to all those educational institutions that have been receiving federal funding, whether it’s a public school, private school, college, or university.
Areas covered
Title IX includes a wide range of domains such as admissions, extra-curricular activities, academic programs, recruitment, etc.
What is sexual harassment?
As per Title IX, sexual harassment refers to any unwanted sexual behavior that violates the privacy or the freedom of an individual. Certain forms of sexual harassment may include cases where sexual favors are demanded for educational benefits or interfering in the participation of an individual in educational programs or athletic activities.
What to do in case of a Title IX violation?
Most educational institutions have certain procedures already in place to address and investigate cases of Title IX violations. Hence, you can contact the Title IX coordinator who will help report the incident and ensure that you get a fair and impartial chance to present your case.
What to do if someone threatens me while filing a Title IX complaint?
Title IX policies clearly prohibit retaliation against the victim and it requires the educational institution to take necessary steps in order to protect the individual.
Enforcement agency
Title IX is enforced by the US Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights (OCR). Education institutions that do not comply with Title IX policies may face sanctions and lose their federal funding.
Conclusion
It has been observed that Title IX has proven to be quite helpful in promoting gender equality in educational institutions and in providing equal opportunities to all students irrespective of their gender identity. However, every now and then, issues arise with respect to the interpretation and implementation of Title IX.
