Title IX updates and what they mean

Major changes were recently made to Title IX, but what does that mean for Indiana students? In short, not much. The longer version, however, is a bit more complicated, especially for transgender and gender diverse students. With school right around the corner, it is imperative that parents, students and teachers know their rights inside the classroom. “I think it is extremely alarming because IYG (Indiana Youth Group), at the core of our mission, is creating safer spaces for community and specifically for LGBTQ+ youth,” said Terrelle Parker, chief operating officer of Indiana Youth Group. “It’s important for our young people to be protected in every space because every single day, we hear the stories of what young people go through in schools when they’re not protected.” Title IX, which is a federal civil rights law passed as part of the Education Amendments of 1972, prohibits sex-based discrimination in educational institutions that receive federal funding. Title IX protects all students, faculty and staff on campus regardless of sex, gender identity or expression. According to the American Council of Education, the changes to Title IX introduce “significant shifts in how institutions address sexual harassment and assault allegations while expanding protections for LGBTQ+...