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Title IX

The Law

Sexual misconduct is not only a violation of university policy, it is against the law.

Title IX prohibits sex discrimination in all university programs and activities, including, but not limited to, admissions, recruiting, financial aid, academic programs, student services, counseling and guidance, discipline, class assignment, grading, recreation, athletics, housing, and employment.

Sexual harassment and sexual violence are forms of sex discrimination prohibited by Title IX. Title IX also prohibits retaliation against people for making or participating in complaints of sex discrimination.

This law states that "If a school knows or reasonably should know about sexual harassment or sexual violence that creates a hostile environment, the school must take immediate action to eliminate the sexual harassment or sexual violence, prevent its recurrence, and address its effects."

Clery Act requires colleges and universities across the United States to disclose information about crime on and around their campuses.

Violence Against Women Act 304 requires colleges and universities to provide information to students about domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking and inform students and staff about the number of these crimes that occur on and near campus. Colleges are also required to create and disseminate policies describing the protections, resources, and services available to victims to help them safely continue their education.

Dear Colleague Letters

Dear Colleague Letter, June 2013Dear Colleague Letter explaining education institutions' responsibility to not discriminate against pregnant and parenting students.
Dear Colleague Letter, October 2010Dear Colleague Letter explaining when bullying triggers a school's responsibilities under Title IX and other antidiscrimination laws.