Title IX was intended to protect against discrimination – NOT promote athletics on college campuses. This federal law is being used unjustly as a tool to cultivate the interest and athleticism in women and correct for past discrimination (e.g. “If they build it, they will come.”). It is time to restore the original intent of Title IX:
“…no person in the United States shall, on the basis of sex, be excluded from participation in, or denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any educational program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance…”
Title IX is a good law and has greatly expanded opportunities for women across the United States. It was enacted at at time when it was sorely needed. However, Congress’ intent for this nondiscrimination statute has been distorted. Through misinterpretation and misapplication of the statute and its regulatory tools, many universities are ultimately forced to discriminate against men.
