Title IX Myths

False: Title IX applies only to discrimination against women.

While Title IX protects the rights of women, 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.

False: Title IX only applies to athletic programs.

This may be one of the most widely held misconceptions about Title IX. Athletics are not the only component of academic life governed by Title IX. Other areas that fall within the scope of Title IX include:

• Benefits and Leave
• Course Offerings and Access
• Counseling Services
• Hiring, Retention, Promotion of Employees
• Recruitment, Admissions, Financial Aid and Scholarships

Title IX also prohibits sexual harassment, which includes sexual assault and sexual violence. Additional information regarding what behaviors may constitute sexual harassment and other forms of sexual misconduct is available at JMU Policy 1324.

Truth: Title IX requires that a female athletic opportunity is equitable with male programs.

Title IX creates 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.

False: According to Title IX, all educational activities and programs must be co-ed and open to both men and women.

Title IX specifically allows for, or has been interpreted to allow for, single-sex programs in a number of categories. Included among those are: religious schools, traditional men’s/women’s colleges, social fraternities/sororities, youth service organizations such as, The Boy/Girl Scouts of America, and beauty pageants.

Truth: Title IX prohibits Gender bias in science, medicine, and engineering.

The under-representation of women in science, medicine, and engineering may violate Title IX. Educational institutions are required to provide women in these disciplines resources, support, and promotional opportunities comparable to their male colleagues.

Truth: Advocates for victims of Title IX who file complaints of discrimination for others are 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.