Title IX

Title IX Myths

Myth: Title IX only applies to athletic programs.
This is perhaps the most widely held misconception about Title IX. Athletics are not the only component of academic life governed by Title IX. Title IX also prohibits sexual harassment, which includes sexual assault and sexual violence, in any college program or activity.

Myth: Title IX requires that male athletic opportunities be decreased to provide opportunities for female programs.
Title IX is designed to prohibit gender discrimination and create parity in athletics, as well as other educational opportunities and experiences for men and women. Title IX does not require schools to cut men’s athletic programs. Each school determines how it will comply with Title IX regulations.

Myth: Title IX applies only to discrimination against women.
While Title IX has been used mostly by women seeking to protect their rights, Title IX also serves to protect the rights of men. Title IX requires that males and females receive fair and equal treatment in all areas of education.

Myth: According to Title IX, all educational activities and programs must be co-ed and open to both men and women.
This is false. Title IX specifically allows for, or has been interpreted to allow for, single-sex programs in a number of categories.

Myth: Advocates for victims of Title IX who file complaints of discrimination for others are not protected from retaliation under Title IX.
The U.S. Supreme Court has broadened the interpretation of Title IX to protect from retaliation whistle-blowers who accuse educational institutions of sex discrimination. The court is of the opinion that reporting incidents of discrimination is integral to Title IX enforcement and would be discouraged if retaliation against those who report it goes unpunished.