Title IX, Discrimination Prevention Law, Turns 50!
Title IX, the federal law that prevents discrimination based on sex by any education program receiving federal funds, turned 50 on June 23rd. Title IX has been a key factor in advancing equality in the education sphere, and continues to advance that goal to this day.
Much of the attention on Title IX focuses on opportunities for women to participate in athletics. But the law also prohibits sex discrimination, which has been defined to include sexual assault and sexual harassment, as well as sex-based discrimination in a school’s courses, programs, and activities. The law also prohibits discrimination based on pregnancy.
Title IX also increased conversations and actions involving parity for women who were earning degrees and applying for faculty positions. There are also provisions for access to scholarships and financial aid, as well as housing to ensure there is no discrimination based on sex.