It is a sad commentary on our culture to know that LGBTQ+ people in North Carolina are still facing high rates of discrimination, harassment, and violence on college campuses. It is important to understand your rights under Title IX so that you can take action if you are threatened or attacked, whether verbally or physically.
What is Title IX?
Title IX is part of the Education Amendments Act of 1972 that protects students against sex discrimination in educational programs that receive federal funding. Title IX compliance falls under the Office for Civil Rights (OCR) of the U.S. Department of Education, the agency that enforces compliance with this amendment. The OCR evaluates, investigates, and acts upon complaints filed on sex discrimination in colleges and other educational facilities.
What Protections are Included Under Title IX?
Title IX is part of the Education Amendments Act of 1972 that protects students against sex discrimination in educational programs that receive federal funding. Title IX compliance falls under the Office for Civil Rights (OCR) of the U.S. Department of Education, the agency that enforces compliance with this amendment. The OCR evaluates, investigates, and acts upon complaints filed on sex discrimination in colleges and other educational facilities.
Transgender Students and Title IX
While the specific guidance issued by the U.S. Departments of Education and Justice has been withdrawn under the Trump administration, the protections under the law have not changed. Transgender students still have the protections provided under Title IX, the right to equal access to educational opportunities, and protection against sex discrimination.
What to Do If This Happens to You
If you are being harassed about your sexual orientation or gender identification, keep a written log of exactly what was said and who said it, with dates and times listed. Every time a harassment occurs, submit a full, written report to your college administrators. If you have a lawyer, ensure that he or she gets a copy of your report, and make note on your written report that your lawyer is in receipt of your report. The school should respond to your complaint in a timely fashion. You can also file a complaint online with the Office for Civil Rights if you feel that your college did not handle your report in a way that protected your rights. You are legally protected against any retaliation from your college for filing a complaint.