Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 is the federal law that prohibits sex discrimination in all aspects of education, including sports. Yet, more than 36 years after the passage of Title IX, we still struggle for equity. While tremendous growth has taken place for female athletes, in participation and scholarship opportunities, much more work is needed to achieve fairness. Though the numbers of girls and women who play sports has increased, women still do not have the same opportunities to participate in sports as boys and men.
To address these disparities, we have created this guide to help parents, students and coaches understand how to become your own advocates for change. Is your school treating its female athletes fairly? Not sure? We know that as you uncover inequities, you may want to correct them with the fierce determination of athletes striving for victory in sports.
To guide you on your path, we have developed this step-by-step playbook to move you through your gender equity event. We grouped the Steps into four quarters, just like a basketball game. That will give you a sense of how to progress and play the game. Just follow these easy, numbered steps to gender equity and make sure that your school is playing the Title IX gender equity game the right way.