For over a decade, young people have been fighting for a Title IX that actually ensures youth can thrive – not just survive – after experiencing sexual violence or harassment as a student.

Washington, D.C. (April 19, 2024) — Today, the U.S. Department of Education released its long-awaited update to the regulations guiding how schools interpret and enforce Title IX as it relates to gender-based violence. 

In response, Emma Grasso Levine, Senior Manager of Title IX Policy and Programs at Know Your IX (a survivor- and youth-led project of Advocates for Youth), issued the following statement:

“After years of pressure from students and survivors of sexual violence, the Biden Administration’s Title IX update will make schools safer and more accessible for young people, many of whom experienced irreparable harm while they fought for protection and support.

Young people and their allies applaud the Biden Administration for finally following through on their promise to release updated Title IX regulations. This new guidance takes a crucial step towards ensuring every young person has access to an education free from gender violence and discrimination. Now, it’s up to school administrators to act quickly to implement and enforce the updated guidance. Student survivors of sexual violence, LGBTQ+ students, and pregnant and parenting students cannot afford to suffer any longer under policies that jeopardize their right to an education.”

Student organizers with Know Your IX, a project of Advocates for Youth, also shared reactions:

“Students who experience sexual violence or discrimination shouldn’t have to weigh our safety against our ability to go to class or participate in campus life,” said Emily Bach, a college student in New York. “The Biden Administration’s updated Title IX rule will make sure that students who experience harm can come forward and seek support without jeopardizing our ability to graduate on time or get a degree.”

“High school students like me are too often left out of the conversation around Title IX even though we need support the most,” said Ravina Nath, a high school student in California. “Today’s Title IX update will make it easier for school districts across the country to step up and protect students from gender violence at K-12 schools like mine.”

Youth organizers and advocates are available for interviews to discuss the updated Title IX regulations and what they mean for students across the country.

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Advocates for Youth is a 501(c)3 organization that champions efforts that help young people make informed decisions about their reproductive and sexual health. Advocates for Youth boldly advocates for a more positive and realistic approach to adolescent sexual health, focusing its work on young people ages 14-24 in the U.S. and around the globe.