Title IX Enacted

Setting the scene

Title IX was enacted June 23, 1972, as part of the Education Amendments, prohibiting sex discrimination in federally funded education programs. 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.'

What happened

Though 37 words long, Title IX transformed American education and sports. Before 1972, fewer than 30,000 women competed in college sports; by 2020, over 200,000 did. The law required equal opportunities in athletics, leading to massive growth in women's sports. It also applied to sexual harassment and assault on campuses.

Why it still matters

Title IX was championed by Rep. Patsy Mink and Sen. Birch Bayh. It faced resistance but was upheld by courts. The law revolutionized opportunities for women and girls, contributing to increased female college enrollment and professional achievement. June 23, 1972, marked a turning point for gender equality in America.

Background

Women's collegiate sports grew enormously.