FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact:
Shelley O’Brien
202-588-8175
obrien@awis.org
Association for Women in Science Condemns House Title IX Ruling
WASHINGTON DC, July 12, 2024 – The Association for Women in Science condemns the U.S. House vote to overturn the Title IX rules put forward by the U.S. Department of Education in April – regulations that we had requested and were waiting on for over two years.
The original Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 was designed to provide an educational environment free from discrimination on the basis of sex. With the evolution of society, the Department of Education amended the regulations to include provisions that extend this protection to other communities that have targeted by discrimination including pregnant and parenting students, members of the LGBTQ+ community, and survivors of sexual harassment and assault.
Meredith Gibson, AWIS CEO, stated, “AWIS believes all forms of sex-based discrimination should be prevented in educational settings. Gender identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy, or parental status have no bearing on someone’s intellectual abilities and career potential. Policies should ensure that any reported violations of these protections result in consequences and that the targeted individuals are protected from further harm. Not only are Individuals being adversely impacted by this reversal, but it is shortsighted. Diverse viewpoints are needed for STEM fields to thrive and the U.S. to prosper.”
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About AWIS: Founded in 1971, AWIS is the leading organization that advocates on behalf of women in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) professions to achieve business growth, social change, and innovation. AWIS’ mission is dedicated to driving excellence in STEM by achieving equity and full participation of women in all disciplines and across all employment sectors.