When Title IX became law, it was a major civil rights victory. Reaching far beyond college sports, it prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex. Today, we celebrate our progress and pledge to continue the fight.
Celebrating 50 years of Title IX. AFL-CIO.

Hi John,

 

Title IX (pronounced “Title Nine”) is a landmark civil rights law that was passed 50 years ago today.

 

It’s only 37 words long. But it changed our country and our fight for gender equity forever.

“No person in the United States shall, on the basis of sex, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any education program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance.”

Rep. Patsy Mink, the first woman of color and Japanese American woman in Congress, wrote and sponsored Title IX. She fought to change the future after facing discrimination her entire life.

 

Specifically mentioning education, Title IX transformed college campuses. One of the most visible effects was for women in college sports—many athletes credit Title IX for where they are today.

 

But Title IX reaches far beyond the playing field. It builds gender equity into scholarships, admissions and opportunity.

 

And when TItle IX was signed into law, we made fighting for gender equity the law.

 

Title IX is not perfect. In 2020, then-Education Secretary Betsy DeVos rolled back protections for survivors of sexual harassment in schools. Schools aren’t being held accountable for failing to meet Title IX standards.

 

So we’ll continue to move forward. We’ll continue to advocate for all girls and women, especially our sisters who face unending discrimination like transgender and Black women.

 

Sign this pledge to say you’ll demand Title IX and equality for everyone.

 

In Solidarity,

 

Team AFL-CIO
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