Prevent Campus Sexual Violence & Empower Survivors

This year was the 50th anniversary of Title IX, the landmark legislation consisting of a mere 37 words—“No person in the United States shall, on the basis of sex, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any education program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance.”  Title IX transformed gender equity in education and it is well known for its application addressing campus sexual violence.

In June,  the Department of Education released the new proposed regulations for Title IX.  Once passed, the proposed regulations will significantly expand the rights of survivors and provide victims of sexual violence with options to seek justice and resources from their university.  Unfortunately, the new regulations do not require the prevention of sexual violence.  Because of this, the Sexual Violence Prevention Association submitted an official comment to the Department of Education advocating for the new regulations to require comprehensive prevention programs in universities, colleges, and K12 schools.  17 nonprofit organizations, 17 student groups, and 356 individual students, alumni, and survivors signed on to our comment.  You can read our official Title IX comment here. 

In addition to advocating for Title IX, we have supported the reauthorization of the Family Violence Prevention Services Act (FVPSA).  The FVPSA is a federal policy that provides funding to rape crisis centers, domestic violence shelters, and similar programs.  Since its passage in 1984, the act must be reauthorized every five years.  The reauthorization process provides key improvements and ensures the federal government continues to provide these much needed funds.

Your continued support empowers us to prevent sexual violence for thousands of people across the country.  Thank you!