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President Zulma R. Toro issued the following statement to mark the 50th anniversary of the Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972.
Fifty years ago today, the passage of Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 changed the landscape of education and athletics in the United States. With just 37 words, women and girls inherited a world of educational and athletic opportunities, and all students gained a safeguard against sex discrimination in public schools.
The law states, “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.”
The language of the law seems straightforward enough, but it has since inspired years of debate, court challenges, and clarifications from supporters and opponents alike. Debate and revision are inevitabilities we must factor into the law’s next 50 years, but we are fortunate to count longtime supporters of education among our state and national leaders.
What is not up for debate is the impact of Title IX among many women in the Central community, including those who have worked to advance it and those who have benefited from it. This fall, we will honor them on Friday, Oct. 14, during the women's volleyball game to recognize their outstanding contributions to the lives and well-being of people in their communities. If you would like to nominate a person for this recognition, please complete this online form. Nominations will be accepted until July 20.
As part of our anniversary celebration, the University also will launch an anniversary web page that will feature profiles on our honorees and other women from the Central community for whom Title IX holds special significance, along with additional information about Title IX.
The Department of Athletics illustrates how our own sports teams changed and expanded with the Title IX on its own web page highlighting the contributions of current and former women athletes and coaches at Central.
Quite a bit of work has gone into our celebration already, and I would like to personally thank the Title IX 50th Anniversary Committee members for their efforts so far and those going forward. The committee includes members from several offices and departments.
Many of you are aware of my deep commitment to Title IX compliance and a positive campus culture at Central. Title IX compliance plays a significant role in our 2030 strategic plan, and as a university we have launched several new initiatives to create a safe environment for all members of the campus community. The Office of Equity and Inclusion (OEI) has been particularly busy over the last few years, and they should be proud of the work they have done to uphold Title IX on behalf of our students, faculty, and staff.
If you would like to learn more about Title IX, click here. Its impact has been significant and is certainly worth celebrating.