The Education Amendments of 1972 includes the policies of Title IX which prohibits discrimination based on the sexual identity of a person in educational institutions which are federally funded. It not only protects the students but the teachers, employees, staff, visitors, etc. are also covered under this. According to Lento Law Firm, it states that there should be no discrimination on the basis of gender identity or on the basis of sexual orientation that is different from stereotypical notions.
Scope:
Title IX includes a wide range of areas under its scope which have been mentioned below:
- Sexual harassment: Title IX explicitly prohibits any kind of sexual behavior which violates the rights and the privacy of an individual and along with this, it also prohibits harassment on the campus which may include intimidating the victim or asking for favors in order to provide certain educational benefits.
- Providing gender equality in athletic activities: There are certain policies in Title IX that require every educational institute to provide equal opportunities for male and female students in various athletic activities.
- Pregnant and parenting students included: Title IX policies include pregnant and parenting students under its purview. It directs educational institutions to provide proper accommodations to such persons so that they can pursue their education without any issues.
- Employment of various teaching and non-teaching members: The policies of Title IX aim to cover employment practices within educational institutions. Hence, Title IX requires that the process of hiring, promotion, and other benefits should be free from sexual discrimination.
- Prohibits retaliation: Title IX protects retaliation against the victim and directs educational institutions to take appropriate measures in such situations to safeguard the interest of the victim.
- Classroom environment: Title IX guidelines aim to ensure that the atmosphere in the classroom is suitable for every student irrespective of their gender.
- Admission process: Title IX clearly states that education institutions that receive federal funding cannot discriminate on the basis of sex when it comes to the admission of students.
Along with this, every educational institution is required to have a grievance redressal mechanism in place to handle the complaints of Title IX violations. If an educational institution fails to do so, they may lose federal funding and even penalties can be imposed on them. However, it is important to keep in mind that the interpretation of Title IX policies has been evolving and changing with time, and therefore, every educational institution should stay up to date with these changes so that the interest of everyone at an educational institution can be protected.
