By prohibiting sex discrimination in federally funded education, the 1972 legislation popularly known as Title IX profoundly changed the lives of U.S. women and girls, accelerating a movement for equal education in classrooms, on sports fields, and in all of campus life. For the law’s 50th anniversary in 2022, we’ll explore Title IX’s ongoing and gripping history through the gutsy people behind it.

From Bernice Resnick Sandler, the “godmother” of Title IX, to her transgender grandchild, the story of Title IX is a legislative, legal, and social drama full of conflicts, progress, and backlashes. The law’s promise is far from fulfilled; Title IX-related controversies still fill headlines. Women still seek fair employment in education. They pursue equity in athletics. And students of all genders demand protection from sexual harassment and assault.

The intersecting narratives map gains and setbacks for feminism in the last fifty years, and show how some women benefit more than others. Participants will be invited to share their own Title IX-related story, if they have one, which will serve as springboards for dives into Title IX’s history. We’ll also share an article critiquing the triumphant narratives in the media’s coverage of Title IX anniversaries.